Overview

A man from Burbank has been sentenced to federal prison for his involvement in a fraudulent scheme that defrauded Medicare out of over $14 million. The scheme involved hospice and diagnostic testing services that were frequently not provided.

Alex Alexsanian, also known as "Samvel" and "Samo," was sentenced to two years and three months in prison and ordered to forfeit $3 million. He pleaded guilty to money laundering conspiracy earlier this year.

Key details

  • Defendant: Alex Alexsanian, 48, from Burbank.
  • Pleaded guilty in January to one count of money laundering conspiracy.
  • Sentenced on Tuesday to 27 months in federal prison.
  • Ordered to forfeit $3 million linked to the fraudulent scheme.
  • Directed a foreign national to open a radiology clinic and acquire Console Hospice in Van Nuys.
  • The foreign national has since left the United States.
  • Filed fraudulent Medicare claims for services that were never provided.
  • Co-defendant Sophia Shaklian, 38, of Los Angeles, pleaded guilty to health care fraud.
  • Shaklian was sentenced to nearly three years in prison.
  • Claims were submitted through seven hospice companies in Los Angeles County.
  • Prosecutors stated that beneficiaries were unaware of the fraudulent services.
  • The total amount received from the fraudulent claims exceeded $14 million.

Context

The fraudulent activities involved exploiting Medicare beneficiaries by submitting claims for services that were not needed or rendered. This case highlights ongoing issues with healthcare fraud and the legal repercussions for those involved.

What happens next

Following the sentencing, further actions may be taken against other co-conspirators involved in the scheme, and law enforcement will likely continue to investigate similar fraudulent activities in the healthcare sector.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific nature of the services that were claimed but not provided are not confirmed. Additionally, the current status of the foreign national who opened the radiology clinic is unclear.