Macomb, IL – In a stipulated bench trial, Dr Khalid Dabash was found guilty of a third degree felony count of vendor fraud. He was sentenced to 24 months probation and will pay $65,000 in fines and restitution.
The stipulated trial means he agreed to the outcome but did not plead guilty.
As part of the agreement, no restrictions will be placed on Dabash's travel and he will be allowed to continue his practice.
Defense attorney Craig Pierce says Dabash simply succumbed to the pressure put on him by the state. Pierce says prosecutors have been after Dabash for four years. He says in any other case involving just $3,000, the state would have reached a civil settlement without pursuing a criminal case.
Dabash was accused of allowing a nurse to treat patients while he was out of the country and then billing for insurance reimbursement as though he had treated the patients.
Pierce says the case against the nurse - Rebecca Neese - is still pending.
Additional information:
*Dabash faced numerous felony fraud and conspiracy charges. As a result of the stipulated trial, all of those other charges against him were dropped.
*The stipulated bench trial was agreed to in the courtroom of Judge William Henderson on Friday afternoon, September 14.
*Dabash is a hugely popular pediatrician. Hundreds of local residents rallied to support him after the state charges were announced. Dabash's supporters contend he was the victim of a modern day witch hunt because he's a Muslim.
*After Friday's hearing, Pierce and fellow defense attorney Bruce Locher spoke with reporters. You can listen to their comments by clicking on the audio button.