DOJ Arrests 324 in Record $14.6 Billion Healthcare Fraud Takedown

Massive Healthcare Fraud Operation Leads to Over 300 Arrests

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has uncovered a staggering $14.6 billion healthcare fraud, resulting in the arrest of more than 300 individuals. This operation marked a significant crackdown on fraudulent activities targeting healthcare programs across the nation.

In a press release, the DOJ disclosed that criminal charges were brought against 324 defendants, including close to 100 medical professionals, as part of the 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. This initiative saw coordinated efforts from both state and federal law enforcement agencies.

The Health Care Fraud Unit of the DOJ Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, along with its core partners from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), spearheaded the operation.

Of those apprehended, 29 were implicated in transnational criminal networks accused of filing over $12 billion in fraudulent insurance claims. U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized the operation’s significance, stating, “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers.”

FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino expressed the gravity of the situation in a post, calling the fraud “a crime against all of us.” He noted that the investigation spanned 50 federal districts, uncovering nearly $3 billion in false claims and over 15 million illegal pill distributions.

Charges were filed for a variety of alleged criminal activities. Notably, 74 individuals faced charges in 58 cases related to the illegal diversion of over 15 million prescription opioids and other controlled substances. Additionally, 49 defendants were accused of fraudulently submitting about $1.17 billion in claims to Medicare through telemedicine and genetic testing scams.

Another 170 defendants were charged with fraudulent schemes involving over $1.84 billion in false claims related to Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers. These claims covered diagnostic testing, medical visits, and unnecessary treatments, often linked to bribes and kickbacks.

The University of Virginia Darden School of Business highlights the broader impact of healthcare fraud, estimating it drains $100 billion annually in fraudulent claims, waste, and abuse. This loss translates to more than $300 per American every year.