Psychologist Bruce Jones taken into federal custody after failing to appear at fraud trial

July 16, 2013

ANDERSON, Ind. — An Anderson psychologist charged with health care insurance fraud is on a federal hold in Marion County Jail.

Bruce E. Jones, 65, was scheduled for trial this week on charges of fraud and illegal possession of firearms, but claimed to be ill and did not show up to court. Jones requested a continuance of the trial, which was not granted. U.S. Marshals arrested Jones shortly after on Tuesday, according to U.S. Attorney General Joe Hogsett's office.

Jones is accused of fraudulently billing at least two health care benefit programs for counseling services that were not actually provided to patients in excess of $100,000, according to a federal grand jury indictment in May 2012.

Additionally, the indictment alleges that Jones had in his possession more than two dozen firearms, including rifles and handguns, and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition.

In May 2012, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney’s office said Jones was believed to be in the Pacific Northwest and was considered a fugitive, but Jones returned a message left on his cellphone by The Herald Bulletin.

Jones said he was out of state visiting friends and was not aware of any indictment, warrant issued for his arrest or that he was considered a fugitive, and indicated that he was on his way back to Indiana.

Three years ago, FBI agents searched Jones’ home as part of an investigation into his billing practices.

Jones served time in prison in the 1980s for insurance fraud and selling drugs. He was barred from possessing firearms and ammunition because of those convictions, according to the indictment.

His counseling practice is located at his home west of the Anderson city limits.

Source: Jack Molitor, "Psychologist charged with insurance fraud jailed on federal hold," The Herald Bulletin, July 12, 2013.