If you’ve been contacted by Medicaid fraud investigators from the Ohio Attorney General’s (AG) office, you might feel a sudden rush of anxiety and uncertainty.
This is exactly the reaction they’re hoping for— investigators often rely on the element of surprise and the public’s limited knowledge of their rights to gather information quickly.
Understanding the tactics they use, your rights under the law, and the importance of seeking legal advice can make all the difference in protecting yourself from unintended consequences.
Medicaid Fraud Investigators: Who They Are and What They Can (and Cannot) Do
It’s essential to remember that Medicaid fraud investigators from the Ohio AG’s office are not law enforcement officers. They have no authority to arrest or detain you. Instead, they use surprise visits and assertive questioning to encourage cooperation. Often, they may appear unexpectedly at your home or workplace, seeking answers under the guise of “helping you clear things up.” While they may seem friendly and persuasive, their primary goal is to secure admissions or confessions—often the only evidence they have against you.
Their Tactics: Using Surprise and Coercion
- Playing on Ignorance of Rights: Many people don’t realize that they are under no obligation to speak with Medicaid fraud investigators. These agents may try to make it seem as though your cooperation is expected, hoping to gather statements they can later use against you.
- Suggesting They Have “Evidence”: It can be common for investigators to imply they have strong evidence against you to get you to explain yourself. This “evidence” may be exaggerated or fabricated to elicit a confession or explanation they can use in building a case.
- Asking You to “Tell Your Side of the Story”: Investigators may act as though they’re giving you an opportunity to clear things up, positioning themselves as friendly intermediaries. However, this is typically a tactic to gain a confession or obtain additional information.
What You Should (and Should Not) Do If Contacted by Investigators
Know Your Rights
You have no obligation to speak with investigators, and any statements you make can and will be used against you. Investigators are not required to inform you of your rights, unlike law enforcement officers, so it’s up to you to know them.
- Ask Them to Leave: You are within your rights to refuse to engage in conversation with them and to request that they leave your property.
- Do Not Make Statements: Any statement you make, even casual remarks, can be twisted and used as evidence against you. Avoid giving any explanations or “your side of the story.”
- Exercise Your Right to an Attorney: It is always wise to consult an attorney experienced in Medicaid fraud defense before engaging with investigators. An attorney can help protect your rights and prevent you from making statements that could hurt your case.
Why Involving an Attorney Early Is Crucial
Medicaid fraud charges carry serious consequences, including potential felony convictions, fines, and loss of medical licenses or Medicaid billing privileges. Early involvement of an experienced Medicaid fraud defense attorney can help you avoid these outcomes. Attorneys can save clients from significant financial and professional losses by intervening before statements are made that can damage a case.
The Risks of Failing to Exercise Your Rights
Choosing to engage with investigators without understanding your rights can harm your defense and increase your risk of conviction. Confessions and statements obtained without proper legal guidance may form the backbone of a case against you. Exercising your right to remain silent and seeking legal counsel is essential in building a strong defense.
Whether you have spoken with investigators or not, call Medicaid fraud defense attorney Sallynda Rothchild Dennison today (614) 228-3413
