The U.S. Department of Justice claims that 25 Floridians in South Florida have been charged in a wire fraud scheme that resulted in the fraudulent issuance of nursing licenses to hopeful applicants.
Three persons were first detained on suspicion of selling false degrees, but they collaborated with the federal authorities and contributed to the development of the case that resulted in the imprisonment of twenty more people.
Each bogus diploma cost roughly $15,000, and over the course of five years, the dealers made almost $100 million off of them.
Fortunately, no patients have suffered any injury as a result of the fake certificate holders.
Nursing School Scandal in Florida: Alleged Sale of Fake Diplomas
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The plot encompassed three institutions: Siena College in Broward County, Sacred Heart International Institute in Broward County, and Palm Beach School of Nursing in Palm Beach County.
At the court hearing for this case, 25 persons were found guilty.
The participants’ affiliation with the college—whether as academics or as students—has not been made public.
The federal inquiry has found that the conspirators offered for sale over 7600 fraudulent degrees.
As a result, 7600 persons throughout the nation are disqualified to work in the health industry.
In addition to selling bogus degrees, the prosecution have claimed that license transcripts were also sold.
Between 2016 and 2021, the students who purchased the fake degrees allegedly paid $114 million.
Public Attitudes Toward Fake Diplomas
It is understandable that the news has upset people in Florida and the rest of the country.
It has been distressing for them to realize that their life may be in the hands of someone so unqualified.
Furthermore, nurses who worked hard to get their degrees and licenses have voiced dismay over the accessibility of such phony credentials.
Reddit users have voiced their dismay and rage at how this was possible after learning about the controversy there.
“This makes me sad. I’m out here putting in a lot of effort to learn how to do this job and do it as well as I can. According to Reddit user Mrwhiskey1814, “While lazy, stupid imposters purchase their way into this business, harming patients, their fellow employees, and eventually everyone they come into touch with.
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The issue has been referred to by many as “an affront to Florence Nightingale,” the pioneer of contemporary nursing.
What Steps Are Being Taken To Minimize Its Effects?
All fifty state nursing boards have been made aware of every student who has obtained a license using a forged diploma.
According to federal officials, they will probably lose their accreditation. However, no criminal charges will be brought against the accused pupils.
The three participating schools have been closed and won’t be reopening anytime soon.
Additionally, those held responsible for enlisting future nurses and selling them fake credentials received sentences totaling more than two years and three months.
The national nursing board has not, however, made any announcements on the measures it would take to prevent future schemes of this kind.
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