Orange County Judge Accused of Healthcare Fraud Scheme with Doctor
In a shocking turn of events, Orange County Judge Israel Claustro has been linked to a healthcare fraud scheme with convicted doctor Kevin Tien Do. The accusations stem from federal court records that reveal a long-running conspiracy involving Claustro’s alleged moonlighting activities with a Pasadena doctor.
Allegations and Accusations
Do recently pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and signing a false tax return, detailing a scheme where he drafted medical reports submitted to a state fund for injured workers. These reports concealed his involvement by listing other doctors’ names, implicating an unnamed “co-conspirator #1,” described as an Orange County prosecutor turned judge in 2022. While federal prosecutors have not officially named Claustro, court documents and charges strongly suggest his involvement.
The Human Side of the Story
Amidst these serious allegations, a glimpse into Claustro’s background sheds light on his journey from a hardscrabble upbringing to a prominent figure in Orange County’s legal community. His commitment to ethics and connecting with the community resonated with voters during his judicial campaign. Claustro’s personal story of growing up in a crowded apartment in Pomona, with parents who had limited education, highlights his resilience and dedication to justice. His ability to relate to less affluent members of the community underscores his passion for the American justice system.
The Alleged Conspiracy Unveiled
Do’s prior conviction for aiding healthcare fraud in 2003 raises questions about his involvement in the recent scheme with Claustro. Despite being barred from participating in the state workers’ compensation system, Do continued to work with Liberty Medical Group to secure benefits for disabled patients. The alleged mastermind, “co-conspirator #1,” controlled Liberty Medical Group, orchestrating a plan to list other practitioners on reports to conceal Do’s identity.
In his plea agreement, Do revealed that over $3 million was paid to Liberty by the state for billings attributed to him, with a significant portion flowing to a company owned by Claustro and his wife. Valley Health Care Management, listed in public records as a company associated with Claustro, played a crucial role in the alleged conspiracy.
Despite these damning accusations, Claustro maintains his position as a judge in the family law section of O.C. Superior Court. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community awaits further developments in this complex and unprecedented case.