400 Yrs Prison For Indians In H1B Fraud?

It is already known that the United States authorities have started to amplify the measures with regard to immigration reforms. Two Indian origin brothers in the United States have been convicted in a massive fraud case involving the misuse of the H 1B visa programme and healthcare schemes, and they could face prison sentences totaling hundreds of years.

The brothers, Bhaskar Savani and Arun Savani, were found guilty by a federal jury in Pennsylvania for running a long running criminal enterprise that allegedly generated millions of dollars through multiple fraudulent operations.

Investigators said the network, known as the Savani Group, carried out healthcare fraud, visa fraud, money laundering and tax related offences over several years.

According to prosecutors, the group exploited the H 1B visa system by filing fraudulent visa petitions to bring foreign workers, many from India, to the United States.

Once the workers arrived, some were allegedly forced to return part of their salaries or pay additional fees to the organisation, effectively exploiting their immigration status and dependence on employment.

Authorities also accused the brothers of running a large scale Medicaid fraud scheme through a network of dental clinics.

Investigators said the clinics billed the government healthcare programme for procedures that were either not performed, performed by unauthorised dentists, or billed using false provider information. The scheme reportedly caused losses of more than 30 million dollars.

If given the maximum penalties, Bhaskar Savani could face up to 420 years in prison while Arun Savani could face up to 415 years. Sentencing in the case is expected later this year in a federal court.