Office Manager of Local Medical Practice Indicted for Embezzlement

ST. LOUIS—The United States Attorney’s Office announced today that Susan Hampe was indicted on multiple fraud charges involving the embezzlement of insurance proceeds intended for patient accounts.

According to the indictment, Hampe was the office manager of Health Center in St. Louis County. The indictment alleges that between May 2008 and May 2010, Hampe embezzled insurance payments that were meant for patients of the medical practice. She allegedly forged the signature of a member of the medical practice on the checks and indicated the payee wished to sign the proceeds of the check over to her. She then deposited the checks into her accounts. Additionally, the indictment alleges that Hampe created bogus claim applications in the name of the medical practice, submitted them to the insurance associated with an existing patient and then signed the payment checks over to herself.

SUSAN HAMPE, Des Peres, Missouri, was indicted by a federal grand jury on two felony counts of mail fraud and two felony counts of theft of mail. She was arrested by law enforcement agents earlier today. Additionally, upon a finding of guilt, the defendant will be subject to a forfeiture allegation, which will require the forfeiture to the government of all money and property derived from the illegal activity.

If convicted, each count of mail fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and/or fines up to $250,000; theft of mail carries a maximum of five years in prison and/or fines up to $250,000 per count. In determining the actual sentences, a judge is required to consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide recommended sentencing ranges.

This case was investigated by the Manchester Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Tom Albus is handling the case for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

As is always the case, charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.