Grand Jury Hands up Three Count Indictment on Dr. Costino

COURT HOUSE — Cape May County Prosecutor Robert L. Taylor announced that, on Tue., Aug. 24, the county Grand Jury handed up a three-count indictment charging a local physician, Dr. John Costino, and his wife, Barbara Haas, with health care claims fraud.
The charges stem from a long-term investigation into the treatment and billing practices of Costino, a pain management specialist, whose practice was located in North Wildwood, according to a release.
The charges involve over 30 instances of fraud for physical therapy treatments that were never administered and-or physical therapy treatments that were administered by unlicensed aides. The indictment also alleged that insurance companies were fraudulently billed for services not rendered or rendered by unlicensed persons.
In addition to the current indictment, Costino also faces separate charges of nine counts of distribution of controlled dangerous substance and related drug offenses that resulted from an investigation by the County Prosecutor’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Costino’s license to practice medicine was suspended and his practice remains closed.
Taylor stated that persons convicted of third degree crimes are subject to three to five years in state prison.