A Columbia woman is facing up time behind bars after pleading guilty in a Hattiesburg federal court Aug. 10 for Medicaid fraud. The sentencing for Joy Beth Harden, 51, will be Nov. 23.
The matter was held in the Southern District, Eastern Division in the federal court system. Harden had been accused through BZB, LLC d/b/a, Duracare Home Medical Equipment billing Medicare for services and equipment never provided to patients.
While Harden was indicted on three counts, the plea agreement Harden signed was for one count only for health care fraud. The other two counts and the amount involved in the fraud will be addressed at the sentencing, according to Sheila Wilbanks, public information officer for the U.S. Attorney’s office.
Regarding the plea, acting U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca provided the following quote: “I commend these investigative agencies who worked tirelessly to uncover this fraud. The defendant sought easy money through fraudulent billings to our nation’s health care providers. Her greed led to her illegal acts for which she now must pay. The U. S. Attorney’s Office will continue to prosecute those who prey upon our nation’s health care system and unjustly enrich themselves at citizens’ expense.”
Harden is in federal custody while awaiting sentencing. She faces a maximum of 10 years and a fine up to $250,000 plus restitution.
Harden also faces charges in Marion County. She was arrested June 17 for bribery of acting or protective officer, trustee, agent and embezzlement: entrusted public property/funds converted for own use. Both charges are felonies.
