A Whittier psychologist was arrested by federal agents Tuesday morning for allegedly bilking the government of nearly $1 million, including fees for treatment sessions that supposedly took place while he was out of the country.
Arnold P. Nerenberg, 69, co-founder of the Whittier-based World Legion of Power bodybuilding organization, was charged June 8 under a 15-count federal grand jury indictment of mail fraud.
Also charged with mail fraud and making false statements are two former postal workers, Lois L. Washington, 47, of Inglewood and Cetric T. Fletcher, 51, of Long Beach.
Each mail fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
The indictment alleges that from June 2000 through April 2008, the defendants submitted fraudulent paperwork to obtain "compensation for psychological conditions that were never diagnosed and reimbursement for medical expenses that were never incurred," ICE officials said in a statement.
Fletcher allegedly pocketed more than $200,000 as a result of the scheme while Washington allegedly made more than $145,000.
White collar crime such as bank fraud, credit card fraud, tax evasion, bankruptcy fraud, internet fraud and other types of criminal offenses are often federal crimes. If you have been charged with
fraud in the Los Angeles area, your best option is to hire an attorney who understands how to use restitution as a trade off for jail time or other serious penalties. Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney
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