Remigius U. Onimo, a former Detroit pharmacist, is facing trial for alleged Medicaid fraud. Onimo is accused of continuing to fill prescriptions at his pharmacy, Divine Pharmacy, despite having his pharmacist license suspended since January 2020. These prescriptions reportedly included those billed to Medicaid, highlighting a grave breach of trust within the health care system, as reported by the Department of Attorney General.
At 64 years old, residing in Solon, Ohio, Onimo has been charged with multiple counts that carry severe penalties. Standing accused of one felony count of Health Profession-Unauthorized Practice, Onimo could see up to four years in prison or a fine of up to $5,000. Other charges include two counts of Medicaid Fraud-False Claim, with each count bringing similarly harsh penalties, according to the Department of Attorney General.
Despite the suspension of Onimo's license, it is alleged that the pharmacist continued operating illicitly. "The overwhelming majority of medical professionals follow licensing rules and requirements to ensure patient safety," Nessel stated. By choosing to disregard these standards, the Attorney General’s office emphasizes, Onimo’s actions have not gone unnoticed and will be met with accountability, as stated by the Department of Attorney General.
Looking ahead, Onimo is set for arraignment on June 11 in the 30th Circuit Court. Given its gravitas, the Attorney General’s Health Care Fraud Division, the federally certified Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for Michigan, is spearheading the prosecution. The division's work is not insubstantial, receiving 75% of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – translating to over $5,703,460.00 million for the fiscal year 2025 – with the remaining budget furnished by the State of Michigan, the Department of Attorney General press release details.
