Will Bynum, a former Detroit Pistons player, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for his involvement in a multi-million dollar health care fraud scheme targeting the NBA Players’ Health and Benefit Welfare Plan. The sentencing occurred on Tuesday in Manhattan federal court following a November conviction for conspiracy to make false statements. The court also ordered Bynum to forfeit and pay restitution of $182,000 each.
Over 20 individuals, including many former NBA players like Terrence Williams and Keyon Dooling, have been implicated in this fraud. According to prosecutors, from 2018 to 2019, Bynum and others submitted false medical claims, totaling $200,000 for nonexistent services from a Los Angeles chiropractor. Williams and Dooling have already faced severe penalties, receiving 10 years and 30 months in prison, respectively.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams emphasized the severity of Bynum’s actions, stating that he “lied to the jury under oath” and warned that significant prison time awaits those who engage in similar fraudulent activities. The case has highlighted ongoing efforts to clamp down on fraud within major health benefit programs.
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