Department of Justice calls foul play on former NFL players

Ten former National Football League players have been charged in an alleged insurance fraud scheme that involved $3.9 million in cash, the U.S. Department of Justice announced Thursday.

In an announcement that reads like a play by play of the alleged fraud involving kickbacks and more, the players submitted false claims to a health plan for retired NFL players and obtained money for expensive medical equipment that was never purchased or received, according to the statement.

The alleged fraud targeted a health reimbursement program that provided for tax-free money for out-of-pocket medical care expenses that were not covered by insurance and that were incurred by former players, their wives and their dependents – up to a maximum of $350,000 per player, according to a statement. 

“Ten former NFL players allegedly committed a brazen, multi-million dollar fraud on a health care plan meant to help their former teammates and other retired players pay legitimate, out-of-pocket medical expenses,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski in the statement. “Today’s indictments underscore that whoever you are, if you loot health care programs to line your own pockets, you will be held accountable by the Department of Justice.”