Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis has announced charges against two individuals for allegedly defrauding government benefit programs. These charges are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
“We are taking significant strides in our ongoing battle against health care fraud within the Middle District of Louisiana,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Travis. “These fraudulent activities not only undermine the integrity of our health care system, but also jeopardize the well-being of countless patients who rely on these essential services.”
Attorney General Pamela Bondi emphasized that this takedown delivers justice to those who exploit vulnerable citizens and misuse taxpayer dollars. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities,” she said.
The nationwide operation resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants accused of participating in schemes involving over $14.6 billion in alleged false billings and illegal drug diversion, which included more than 15 million pills of controlled substances being illegally diverted.
In the Middle District of Louisiana, Cody Hulbert, 41, and Britney McCoy, 31, both from Baton Rouge, were charged with wire fraud-related offenses. Hulbert is accused of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and theft related to fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, and unemployment insurance benefits. McCoy faces charges related to submitting false PPP loan applications.
“The scale of today’s takedown is unprecedented,” said HHS-OIG Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins. “Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable.”
DEA New Orleans Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Arnett added that these charges highlight a commitment to holding accountable those involved in illegal drug diversion.
The enforcement action was coordinated by various law enforcement agencies across multiple states and districts, with cases prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig and Trial Attorney Gary A. Crosby II.
An indictment is merely an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
