Attorney General Bondi Announces Arrest of Alachua County Woman for Exploiting 11 Disabled Adults
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Pam Bondi announced today that Zonia
Cooper, an Alachua County woman, has been arrested following an
investigation by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of allegations that the
former group home manager exploited eleven disabled adults. Cooper, 44,
committed the alleged acts of exploitation during her employment at an Arc
of Alachua Group Home.
“The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit is dedicated to protecting elderly and
disabled adults in health care facilities throughout Florida, and we will
not allow these individuals to be exploited or abused,” stated Attorney
General Pam Bondi.
According to the investigation, Cooper misappropriated more than $1,300
from eleven disabled adults under her supervision. Cooper has been charged
with eleven counts of exploitation of a disabled adult and one count of
scheme to defraud, all third degree felonies. If convicted of all charges,
Cooper faces up to 60 years in prison and a $60,000 fine. The case will be
prosecuted by William P. Cervone, State Attorney for the Eighth Judicial
Circuit.
In addition to investigating Medicaid fraud, the Attorney General’s
Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigates abuse, neglect and exploitation of
elderly or disabled persons in health care facilities. The Patient Abuse,
Neglect and Exploitation (PANE) Team plays a key role in helping to ensure
that efficient and effective health care is being provided.
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Contact:
John Lucas
Phone: 850.245.0150
John.Lucas@myfloridalegal.com
