EL PASO, Texas – In a shocking revelation, Victor Phillips, owner of Cutt Master Barber School, LLC (Cutt Master), has agreed to pay $900,000 to settle allegations that he violated the False Claims Act by falsely submitting claims to the Veteran’s Administration (VA).
According to sources, Cutt Master is a hair salon and barber shop school operating in El Paso. In 2011, the Texas Veterans Commission approved Cutt Master to offer educational courses for reimbursement under the GI Bill. The VA paid Cutt Master tuition and fees for covered courses.
The government alleged that Cutt Master received payments for claims that did not comply with VA requirements and submitted claims for courses not properly accredited. The government also alleged that Phillips falsely certified that he and Cutt Master complied with VA requirements regarding the appropriate ratio of VA students enrolled in their programs.
Phillips and the government have agreed to resolve the dispute with Phillips paying $900,000.00 to the United States. U.S. Attorney Ashley C. Hoff of the Western District of Texas and Department of Veterans Affairs OIG Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Breen of the South Central Field Office made the announcement.
The matter was investigated by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Veterans Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eduardo R. Castillo handled this matter.
The claims asserted against the defendants are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
As a result of this settlement, Victor Phillips, owner of Cutt Master Barber School, LLC, has agreed to pay $900,000. This is a significant amount that reflects the severity of the alleged crimes committed by Cutt Master.
It is imperative that businesses and individuals comply with federal regulations, especially when it comes to receiving government funds. The VA plays a crucial role in supporting our nation’s veterans, and it is essential that those who receive funding from the VA adhere to the rules and regulations set in place.
The investigation and settlement of this case serve as a reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in the business community.
Defendant/Respondent: Victor Phillips
Exact Criminal Charges: Violated the False Claims Act by falsely submitting claims to the VA
City and State: El Paso, Texas
Exact Date: Not specified, but the allegations date back to 2011
Sentence or Outcome: Agreed to pay $900,000 to settle allegations
Dollar Amounts: $900,000
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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