Arizona Couple Convicted in $12 Million Medicaid Fraud Scheme

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Thvoughn Lynden Curry, 34, and Alexis Daneen Curry, 34, of New River, Arizona, have been convicted of defrauding the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the state’s Medicaid agency, of over $12 million, the Department of Justice announced.

The Scheme

The Currys operated 1 Family Clinic LLC, an outpatient behavioral health clinic in Mesa, Arizona. Prosecutors presented evidence at trial demonstrating that the couple fraudulently obtained approval to participate in AHCCCS. The application submitted by the Currys falsely listed Alexis Curry as the clinic’s sole owner and managing employee, failing to disclose Thvoughn Curry’s ownership and involvement, particularly the fact that he had an active warrant for prior felony fraud charges.

Between February 1, 2021, and March 31, 2023, the Currys engaged in a billing scheme, submitting claims to AHCCCS for services that were not actually provided. Authorities noted a “uniform, nearly identical pattern” in the billing, with the clinic billing for an average of more than 12 hours of services per patient per day, despite operating limited hours – eight hours on weekdays, five hours on Saturdays, and being closed on Sundays according to prosecutors.

Luxury Purchases and Arrest

AHCCCS ultimately paid over $12 million to the clinic for these fraudulent services. Prosecutors revealed that a significant portion of the funds was used for personal expenses, including real estate and luxury vehicles. These purchases included a 2019 Lamborghini Urus valued at over $300,000 as reported by 12 News.

The couple was arrested in Temecula, California, on November 2, while leaving a casino, facing charges of wire fraud and money laundering as detailed by KJZZ.

Conviction and Sentencing

Both Thvoughn and Alexis Curry were convicted of one count of Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud, three counts of Health Care Fraud, and eight counts of Transactional Money Laundering. Sentencing is scheduled for May 4 according to the Department of Justice.

“Medicaid provides an essential service to some of the most vulnerable members of our community,” said IRS-CI Phoenix Field Office Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarom Gregory. “For these fraudsters to exploit this system and steal millions of U.S. Taxpayer dollars is unconscionable.”