Arkansas Attorney General's Office Secures Convictions and Arrest in Medicaid Fraud Cases

Strategic Insights -

Attorney General Tim Griffin has continued his office's efforts to combat Medicaid fraud and protect Arkansas residents. In recent weeks, his office's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit has secured convictions and an arrest in cases involving exploitation, theft, and abuse of vulnerable individuals. These cases highlight the dedication of Griffin's office to holding accountable those who exploit and abuse Arkansans, particularly the most vulnerable members of society.

Key Takeaways:

  • David Pelto, a former co-guardian, was arrested on charges of exploitation and theft, accused of stealing money, personal property, and a silver-coin collection from a vulnerable individual.
  • Carmelita McCullum, a caregiver, pleaded guilty to Medicaid fraud, billing for services she never provided to her clients, and was sentenced to six years of probation, $500 fine, and restitution of $17,902.56.
  • Tiernan Hoyle, a caregiver, pleaded guilty to exploitation, using a vulnerable individual's debit card to make unauthorized purchases, resulting in a loss of $577.96.
  • The Arkansas Medicaid Fraud Control Unit receives 75% of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, with a total grant totaling $4,685,736 for Federal Fiscal Year 2025.
  • The remaining 25% of the unit's funding, totaling $1,171,432 for State Fiscal Year 2025, comes from Arkansas General Revenue.
  • Attorney General Tim Griffin has committed to pursuing those who commit Medicaid fraud and exploit Arkansans, with his office's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit working tirelessly to protect vulnerable individuals.

Statistics:

  • 75% of the Arkansas Medicaid Fraud Control Unit's funding comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
  • Total grant funding for the Federal Fiscal Year 2025: $4,685,736 ($3,514,304 federally funded, $1,171,432 from Arkansas General Revenue).
  • Number of individuals affected by Medicaid fraud in these cases: 3.
  • Total restitution ordered: $17,902.56.
  • Number of days served in jail: 55.
  • Total fine imposed: $5,000 ($500 for McCullum, $2,500 for Hoyle).
  • Total community service hours ordered: 40.

Sources:

  • Statement by Attorney General Tim Griffin: (no date provided).
  • Griffin bio: (no date provided).
  • Medicaid Fraud Control Unit funding information: (no date provided).