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Doctor, Therapist Arrested In Miami Medical Fraud Investigation

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- Authorities arrested three people in connection to a medical fraud investigation in Miami Monday.

"We're the capital of the world when it comes to, when it come s to this type of fraud," said Officer Rene Pimentel. "So medical fraud is huge here in South Florida."

The Miami Police Department has been working undercover at Brothers Medical Center for almost a year.

On Monday, they executed a search warrant and entered the building located at 3990 West Flagler Street.

Officer arrested Dr. Angel Amado Lazo, Therapist Clara R. Segura, and Front Desk attendant Arlene Hernandez Garcia.

Arlene Hernandez
(Source: Miami Dade Corrections)

All three were charged with insurance claims/false fraudulent, grand theft third degree and organized scheme to defraud.

It all started in September of 2015 when an undercover officer – posing as a patient – was sent in.

"He was told to fill out a bunch of papers and never came for any kind of therapy," the uncover officer explained. "There wasn't any type of treatment whatsoever.  They were just billing the insurance company for services not rendered."

The undercover patient, who is with the National Insurance Crime Group, wore a mask to protect his identity. He says his insurance was billed thousands of dollars.

"This is something that goes on time and time again. This type of clinic to be honest with you is an epidemic. It's happening all over the country and it's something that's affecting everybody.  It's affecting our insurance rates, it's affecting everything," he said.

Earlier this morning, they also made eight other arrests from a separate case that also started several months ago. Those individuals also face similar charges, including some federal charges.

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