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AHCCCS investigation leads to another indictment against man accused of 'patient brokering'

Investigators allegedly found 16 people living in unlicensed sober living homes operated by the defendant.

PHOENIX — A man is facing criminal charges in Maricopa County after investigators found several people living in unsanitary conditions at unlicensed sober living homes.

The Arizona Attorney General's Office announced Thursday it had obtained another indictment in its months-long investigation into scammers taking advantage of the state's Medicaid system. 

State investigators have been scrutinizing sober living homes funded by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System that have failed to provide adequate care or exploited Indigenous patients. 

The rampant fraud resulted in the state suspending over 100 providers earlier this year and criminal charges have begun to be filed in court.

The latest indictment charges Corey Beckhum, 41, with conspiracy and "patient brokering" after he allegedly offered to refer patients to an AHCCCS-funded behavioral health facility in exchange for payment.

Beckhum's name is listed as the manager of a health care facility in Buckeye, according to the Arizona Corporation Commission.

When investigators executed a search warrant last month, the AG's office reported finding 16 people living in the unlicensed homes. AHCCCS provided these individuals the opportunity to be taken to a legitimate facility.

Beckhum was taken into custody and is facing multiple felony charges.

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