St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - A Maple Grove man has been convicted in federal court for his role in a $1.4 million Medicare fraud case.

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40-year-old Eskender Yousuf was convicted on seven counts including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft Tuesday.

Prosecutors said Yousuf was a mental health practitioner who worked with Live Better, a patient services company with offices in Roseville and Minneapolis. Yousuf, and others, knowingly prepared and signed client progress notes for mental health services and related interpreter verification forms, that were not actually rendered.

They then submitted claims to the Minnesota Medicaid program for reimbursement of mental health services.

Court documents said as a result of the false claims, the Medicaid program paid more than $1.4 million for services that never occurred.

A sentencing hearing will be at a later date.

Yousuf was one of nine total defendants charged in the conspiracy. Six others pleaded guilty prior to trial, and two others remain fugitives from law enforcement.

Minnesota’s Longest Drive-Thru Light Show

The Kiwanis Holiday Light Display is free, but cash and non-perishable food donations are accepted. All money collected is given to area non-profits. Since opening in 2012 the event has raised nearly $800,000 for local charities.

Gallery Credit: troy dunken

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