A Texas dentist is headed to federal prison after orchestrating a multi-million dollar fraud scheme targeting Medicaid.
Houston dentist Rene Fernandez Gaviola has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for his involvement in a $6.9 million Medicaid fraud scheme.
Gaviola, who pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including conspiracy, fraud, kickbacks, and money laundering, will also serve three years of supervised release and must pay over $7.9 million in restitution and fines.
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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton emphasized the gravity of Gaviola’s actions, stating, “Fraudulent schemes like this one harm our healthcare system and exploit hardworking taxpayers.” He further reiterated the commitment to prosecute those who steal from public programs.
Gaviola and his co-conspirators engaged in various illegal activities, including paying kickbacks for patient referrals, billing Medicaid for unrendered services, and employing unlicensed individuals to practice dentistry.
The successful investigation was a collaborative effort between Attorney General Paxton’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the FBI, and the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Inspector General. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case for the Southern District of Texas.
Since 2021, the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit has recovered over $612 million for Texas taxpayers, demonstrating their dedication to fighting fraud and safeguarding public funds.
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