Springs doctor's sentencing postponed in Medicare fraud case

A Colorado Springs physician is scheduled to be sentenced in November for her role in a Medicare fraud scheme that authorities say bilked taxpayers out of $12 million.

Dr. Aginah M. DeBerry, of Four Points Family Medical Center on East Pikes Peak Avenue, was among 18 people indicted by a federal grand jury in February 2007.

The group, composed mostly of California physicians, was charged with conspiracy to pay and receive illegal kickbacks. Part of the scheme involved enticing the elderly and mentally ill with soda and candy to undergo unnecessary respiratory treatments.

DeBerry pleaded guilty in December 2008 to one count of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government, according to court records. She later testified against four other defendants. Her plea deal and other records about her role in the case are sealed.

She was originally scheduled for sentencing in Central California’s U.S. District Court last month, but that was postponed until Nov. 16. Earlier this month, a judge granted her a request for a passport to travel internationally, largely because of her cooperation and good behavior.

DeBerry’s practice remains open, her license is current, and she has acknowledged her felony conviction on her Colorado physician profile, managed by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies.

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