DOJ charges 10 defendants in Southern California healthcare fraud schemes

On June 24, 2026, federal authorities charged 10 defendants in Southern California as part of a series of healthcare fraud schemes. One case involved nearly $270 million in fraudulent Medi-Cal claims, while another case allegedly defrauded Medicare of approximately $27 million. These charges are part of the Justice Department's "2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown," which has resulted in charges against 455 defendants nationwide, involving more than $6.5 billion in alleged fraud. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that this operation represents a significant effort to combat healthcare fraud. Among those charged is Christina Mareik, 61, who is accused of facilitating fraudulent prescriptions that generated nearly $270 million in claims to Medi-Cal, with over $178 million paid out. Other defendants include individuals charged with operating hospice care companies that fraudulently billed Medicare. The charges include conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud and violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute.