CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A senior social worker for the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services has been charged with receiving illegal kickbacks. Β
Investigators say 43-year-old Ryce Hatchett Jr. received at least $12,000 in illegal kickbacks from Ronnie Robinson, the owner of Peaceful Alternative Resources, Inc. (a non-profit mental health and mentoring service provider). Β
Hatchett is accused of giving Robinson referrals of individuals enrolled in the Medicaid program. Β Some of the referrals were actual DSS clients. Β
Court records show Robinson used the beneficiaries’ information to file fraudulent reimbursement claims with Medicaid for services that were either not approved by Medicaid or were never provided. Β
Hatchett faces a maximum term of five years in prison and $250,000 fine. Β In a plea agreement, Hatchett has agreed to pay full restitution to Medicaid for any losses resulting from his criminal conduct. Β His sentencing hearing has not been scheduled at this time. Β
Robinson pleaded guilty in January to two counts of health care fraud and is currently awaiting sentencing. Β
