An Edison man and a Toms River woman have pleaded guilty to defrauding millions of dollars from the New Jersey Traumatic and Brain Injury Fund after they had a romantic relationship.
According to U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger, Harry Pizztelli made $4.5 million in bogus payments over a decade to maintain and pursue romantic and sexual relationships with Maritza Flores and other women. He was the manager of a publicly funded medical benefit program.
Pittelli, 64, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud during a video conference in Trenton federal court.
Flores, 45, also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit medical fraud and tax evasion.
In January 2021, FBI and IRS special agents also arrested Pittelli, Flores, and co-defendant CR Krause.
As of Wednesday, the charges against Krause are still pending.
Traumatic Brain Injury Fund New Jersey scammer pleads guilty in federal court (NJ.gov, Canva)
funds for patients
The TBI Foundation is a publicly funded program operated by the state’s Department of Disability Services under the Department of Social Services.
New Jersey residents who have suffered a traumatic brain injury can ask for money for needed services when funds from insurance, personal resources, or other programs cannot meet their needs.
Such services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, cognitive therapy, installing wheelchair ramps, and other home modifications.
fraud depth
From 2009 to June 2019, Pizutelli, Kraus, Flores and others funneled over $4.5 million from the fund in fake payments for services that were never actually provided.
As manager of TBI Fund, Pizutelli led the fraud by creating and processing false invoices and internal payment slips.
Flores received over $940,000 in funding and Krause received over $3.2 million to use for personal gain and wealth.
Pizztelli admitted another $400,000 or so of bogus payments were made to other women who did not provide real services to TBI Foundation patients.
Conspiracy to commit medical fraud and tax evasion are each punishable by up to 10 years in prison and large fines.
Pittelli was scheduled to be sentenced on May 8, while Flores was scheduled to be sentenced a day later.
Erin Vogt is a reporter and anchor for the New Jersey 101.5. You can contact her at her erin.vogt@townsquaremedia.com.
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