In some instances, a criminal investigation can reveal or support behavior that is grounds for a civil lawsuit. As a result, it is not uncommon for Las Vegas residents and businesses to pursue civil litigation against parties who are facing criminal trials or those who have already been convicted of crimes.
Health Plan of Nevada is currently facing a breach of contract lawsuit, launched by plaintiffs who claim that the HMO sent insured members to endoscopy clinics that engaged in improper medical practices. The physician who owned these clinics is believed to have caused a hepatitis C outbreak. He was convicted of second-degree murder in 2013 and is currently serving a prison sentence. He will go to trial again next year on charges of health care fraud and conspiracy.
Health Plan of Nevada is the largest HMO in the state, and an attorney for a plaintiff claims that the insurer may be required to pay $1 billion as a result of this lawsuit. Reports do not indicate how many plaintiffs are tied to this breach of contract case.
As the physician has been convicted of second-degree murder, it is clear that at least one person died as a result of his actions. Reports do not indicate whether any of those victims’ family members are currently pursuing civil claims against the doctor.
Victims of crimes may have the option of pursuing civil remedies. If you or your business has suffered a loss due to the fraudulent actions of a party with which you have a contract, you may want to investigate contract litigation as a means of addressing your damages.
Source: newsobserver.com, “Jury being picked for Nevada HMO hepatitis C case,” Oct. 21, 2014
