Scammer Stole $14K From Medicaid By Faking Medical Invoices: Sheriff

ORANGE COUNTY, NY — A Chester woman has been arrested for stealing thousands of dollars from taxpayers through an elaborate scheme, the Orange County Sheriff's Office said.

After an investigation by the sheriff's office and the Orange County White Collar Crimes Task Force, a scam was uncovered involving falsified invoices that were submitted to defraud the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities program serviced through Medicaid.

Julie M. Persaud allegedly manipulated invoices digitally, resulting in a personal profit of over $14,000 in ill-gotten gains, according to investigators.

"This arrest serves as a clear message that we are unwavering in our dedication to protecting public funds and delivering justice," Sheriff Paul Arteta said. "Fraudulent activities by public servants, particularly those defrauding a program for disabled individuals, will not be tolerated."

The 36-year-old has been charged with two counts of felony fourth-degree health care fraud, and two counts of felony third-degree grand larceny. She was issued an appearance ticket to return to the Town of Blooming Grove Court.