Corporate and Financial Investigations recently held their 35th Law Enforcement Reception to recognize the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and BCBSM to combat health care fraud. “CFI has maintained a 35-plus year relationship with federal, state, county and local law enforcement in the fight against health care fraud,” said Dan Crowell, director, Corporate and Financial Investigations. “This reception is a way to bring them together to show Blue Cross’ appreciation for the collaborative efforts.” The reception highlighted two cases that had a great impact for Blue Cross. The cases involved five law enforcement members from two different agencies. They were honored with plaques from Blue Cross to thank them for their success. The first case involved a supplier who sent durable medical equipment, such as bandages and gauze, to numerous members without medical necessity. The individuals representing the teams involved and accepting the plaques were:
- Mark Reene, prosecutor, Tuscola County
- Eric Wanink, chief assistant prosecutor, Tuscola County
- 1st Lt. Todd Mapes, Caro Michigan State Police Post
- Retired Det. Sgt. Brian Ferguson, Michigan State Police
The second case involved a Coldwater chiropractor who was sentenced to 18 months probation after he was found guilty of eight counts of defrauding Blue Cross for payments he received for false treatments in 2014. Det. Sgt. Heather Lass of the Michigan State Police accepted the award. Identifying and prosecuting health care fraud and protecting the safety of our members are the number one priority of our team, Crowell said. “Recognizing those in Law Enforcement who assist us every day is a small token of our appreciation,” he said.
