(The Center Square) – A South Dakota grand jury indicted a Black Hills woman of grand theft, perjury and submitting false claims to Medicaid for allegedly overbilling three health care services, according to Attorney General Marty Jackley.
Jessica Scott is accused of taking more than $477,000 from the South Dakota Medicaid Program, South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, and the South Dakota Department of Human Services while serving as a board member of the Adult Day Center of the Black Hills.
“The important thing is stolen taxpayer money has been recovered,” Jackley said Friday.
The three organizations will split the recovered funds, according to Jackley.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General assisted the attorney general’s office Medicaid Fraud Unit with the investigation.
“Individuals who submit fraudulent claims and false statements to federally funded programs put health care benefits for everyone at risk,” said Curt L. Muller, special agent in charge of the office.
The day center’s services were not interrupted by the theft, said Melanie Barclay, executive director.
“Throughout the past year, we have worked very hard to strengthen our relationships with the State of South Dakota as well as the Veterans Administration,” Barclay said. “Our caregivers and guests depend on us for socialization opportunities, personal cares, community activities and respite, and we are committed to work tirelessly to continue to provide care.”
