Florida Nursing Schools , Part of Alleged , Wire Fraud Scheme .
CBS reports that federal officials have
uncovered an alleged scheme involving
three South Florida nursing schools. .
As a result of the scheme, thousands of
practicing nurses in the United States may
be working with bogus academic credentials. .
As a result of the scheme, thousands of
practicing nurses in the United States may
be working with bogus academic credentials. .
On January 25, the Department of Justice
said that the now-closed school allegedly
issued over 7,600 fake and unearned diplomas.
CBS reports that the alleged scheme involved schools
that include Siena College, Palm Beach School of
Nursing and Sacred Heart International Institute. .
Over two dozen people have been
charged for their alleged involvement. .
According to the Department of Justice, those involved , "engaged in a scheme to sell fraudulent nursing
degree diplomas and transcripts obtained from
accredited Florida-based nursing schools." .
CBS reports that each
of the defendants faces up to
20 years in prison if found guilty.
Nurses who received fake degrees reportedly went on
to work in fields that include homebound children,
assisted living facilities and veteran affairs.
States found to have nurses who were caught up in the scheme include Ohio, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Georgia, Maryland and Texas. .
CBS reports that the alleged scheme
took place between 2016 and 2020