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Defendants Accused of Stealing $700K from NJ Traumatic Brain Injury Fund
Decade-Long Conspiracy Targets Publicly Funded Program Aimed at Assisting Traumatic Brain Injury Victims
Morristown, NJ - In a significant legal development, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) have announced indictments against six individuals and two companies, accused of orchestrating a decade-long scheme to defraud the New Jersey Traumatic Brain Injury Fund (TBI Fund) of over $700,000. The fund, a critical resource for victims of traumatic brain injuries, provides essential services not covered by other means of support.
The defendants, identified as Maria Sirange Viana DeSouza, Marlene Souza-Sales, Patricia Souza Lima, Stephanie Andrade, Estela Marisol Zapata, and Clara Rincon, along with Marlene’s Cleaning Service LLC and S&N Household Management LLC, face charges including conspiracy, theft by deception, and official misconduct.
These charges stem from an investigation led by the Corruption Bureau of OPIA, revealing a systematic abuse of the fund's vendor payment system.
Allegedly, from January 2009 to October 2019, the accused exploited the TBI Fund's process for reimbursing services provided to beneficiaries.
By creating a facade of legitimate vendor services, they managed to secure payments for services that were never delivered. This manipulation not only diverted funds meant for the aid of individuals coping with life-altering injuries but also imposed an undue burden on taxpayers who support the TBI Fund.
Attorney General Platkin emphasized the severity of the fraud, noting its impact on taxpayers and, more importantly, the vulnerable individuals who rely on the TBI Fund for assistance with daily living needs and rehabilitation services.
Thomas J. Eicher, Executive Director of OPIA, pointed out the alleged fraudulent manipulation of the system by the defendants, underlining the indictment as a cautionary tale for those contemplating the misuse of public resources.
The legal proceedings moving forward will focus on these serious allegations, with Deputy Attorneys General Brian Kenney and Max Lesser leading the prosecution.
The involvement of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey underscores the case's significance and the collaborative effort to uphold public integrity and accountability.
As the case progresses through the judicial system, the charges against the defendants serve as a reminder of the legal and ethical responsibilities individuals and entities hold, especially when dealing with resources allocated for public welfare.
The accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty, but this case highlights ongoing efforts to protect vital public services from fraudulent activities.
