Misappropriation of Funds

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WHAT ARE THE SIGNS THAT THIS IS A SCAM?

As a caregiver, family member or trusted friend, you notice that the funds appropriated for living expenses for an individual with developmental disabilities are missing. The individual can no longer afford necessities, such as groceries or medication, and has began acting secretively.



 HOW CAN CONSUMERS PROTECT THEMSELVES?
Monitor the individual’s financial statements, and pay attention to unusual financial transactions such as large withdrawals or transfers to other accounts.

Be cautious of the family members, neighbors and friends that spend a lot of time with the individual. Once they gain the trust of the individual, they may take advantage of the individual and begin stealing. Often, these thieves ask the individual to be quiet about any of their activities.


HOW TO REPORT IF YOU'VE BEEN A VICTIM

241-KIDS: If the individual is under the age of 20, call the Hamilton County Job and Family Services’ 24-hour hotline to report child abuse or neglect.

Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services’ (HCDDS) Major Unusual Incidents and Prevention Unit (MUIP): MUIP is a mandated investigative and prevention entity within HCDDS. To report an emergency, call 513-794-3308. To speak with the MUIP Unit help desk, call 513-559-6536.

Local Police Department: If you suspect that someone is stealing medication from an individual with developmental disabilities, immediately contact your local police department to file a report. Click here to obtain the contact information for your local police department.


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For more information on scams or fraud involving individuals with developmental disabilities, visit these Web sites:

Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities – Medicaid Fraud