Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas authorities announced a recent conviction and arrest in separate Medicaid fraud cases, highlighting ongoing efforts to hold individuals accountable for misusing public healthcare funds. On Tuesday, Attorney General Tim Griffin provided details on both cases, noting that one woman had already been convicted while another faced fresh charges.
Shylee Earlette Hagler, 53, of Little Rock, pleaded guilty to a single charge of Medicaid fraud on August 26. She received a sentence of six months suspended imposition, a $150 fine, and an order to pay $297 in restitution. The case involved claims for personal-care services that were never actually provided.
“Hagler claimed to have provided personal-care services to a Medicaid beneficiary in their home on several dates when the beneficiary had already been admitted as an inpatient at a local hospital,” Griffin said. This revelation underscores the importance of verifying Medicaid claims and ensuring that funds are used appropriately for the benefit of patients who genuinely need care.
In a separate incident, Griffin reported the arrest of 24-year-old Zariaeah Blake from Pine Bluff on September 4. Blake faces one count of Medicaid fraud, accused of billing for services that were never rendered, again while the beneficiary was hospitalized.
“Blake allegedly billed for services not rendered while the Medicaid beneficiary was already admitted as an inpatient at a local hospital,” Griffin said in a press release. Authorities have not yet disclosed the details of Blake’s legal proceedings, but the arrest signals continued vigilance in investigating Medicaid misuse across the state.
These cases mark the latest in a series of Medicaid fraud enforcement actions in Arkansas. Officials emphasize that Medicaid fraud not only violates state law but also diverts essential resources away from vulnerable patients who rely on these programs for legitimate care. By pursuing both convictions and arrests, state authorities aim to maintain the integrity of the Medicaid system and deter others from attempting similar fraudulent activities.
Attorney General Griffin reiterated the state’s commitment to cracking down on fraud, reminding the public that such crimes carry legal consequences and financial penalties. Residents are encouraged to report any suspected misuse of Medicaid benefits to help protect the program and ensure that assistance reaches those who genuinely need it.
