A man accused of orchestrating a massive Medicare fraud scheme has been arrested overseas and returned to the United States. Herbert Leon Kimble, 60, allegedly responsible for a $1.2 billion conspiracy, was captured in the Philippines after evading authorities for almost two years.
Federal officials revealed Kimble operated a fraudulent healthcare scheme that resulted in over $1.2 billion in Medicare charges. This affected thousands, especially the elderly. The operation reportedly used call centers to promote medically unnecessary orthopedic braces to these vulnerable individuals.
In 2019, Kimble pleaded guilty to various federal charges, including conspiracy to defraud the United States, healthcare fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud, making false claims, and offering kickbacks and bribes. However, he evaded his sentencing hearing scheduled for August 2024. His absence led to a federal warrant and an international manhunt.
The recent arrest coincides with the launch of the Justice Department’s “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list, aimed at identifying and apprehending those involved in major fraud cases. Just weeks ago, authorities also captured Said Abdullahi Ereg, marking the first arrest from the list.
FBI Director Kash Patel commented on the quick progress, noting Kimble’s arrest follows that of Ereg within a two-week span. He emphasized the FBI’s commitment to President Donald Trump’s directive to curb fraud and safeguard taxpayer funds.
The arrest also follows the Justice Department’s creation of a National Fraud Enforcement Division to support Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, led by Vice President J.D. Vance. Vance recognized the “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list’s role in apprehending Kimble and stressed the administration’s dedication to capturing fraudsters.
According to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, evading the country does not imply evading accountability. Blanche highlighted Kimble’s failed attempt to escape justice by fleeing to the Philippines. He credited the FBI’s efforts under Trump’s leadership for the swift arrests of two individuals from the “Most Wanted Fraudsters” list.
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