11 Arrested in STX Medicaid and Food Stamp Fraud

M.A. Dworkin

USVI - The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Justice (DOJ) in coordination with the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) announced on January 28, 2026, the arrest and charges of four employees of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (DHS) Medicaid Program, two employees of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and four of their family members and associates. 

The actions follow a comprehensive twenty-month investigation into allegations of fraud in the administration of the Medicaid program. Investigators determined the scheme involved intentional misuse of government computer systems to alter or override eligibility safeguards, resulting in the unlawful disbursement of Medicaid funds.

Those charged included:

• Doenyka Lewis - Medicaid Program (MAP) employee

• Shanoya Hendrickson - a MAP employee, and her mother Karen Blyden  

• Clarissa L. Nunez - a SNAP employee, and her mother Carmen Nunez

• Shantenysha Victor - a MAP employee, and her husband *Akim Noel Davis

• Kenera Sheneal Frederick - a MAP employee, and her mother Sharon Olivia Henry

•  Lisaminelli Montanez - a SNAP employee, and her partner Shane Gaston.

*Note: Akim Noel Davis has not yet been arrested. A Wanted Bulletin (BOLO) has been issued for his arrest.

The investigation began after the Public Integrity Unit within the DHS identified irregularities in Medicaid eligibility determinations and referred the matter to MFCI for further investigation.

Law enforcement executed the arrests at multiple locations, including DHS offices in Estate Hannah’s Rest, St. Croix, and private residences throughout the island.

According to investigators, the employees exploited their positions within the Medicaid program to alter eligibility information, manipulate eligibility files, add ineligible individuals to household files, and approve benefits to people who were not legally entitled to receive Medicaid assistance. In some instances, the Medicaid employee unlawfully extended Medicaid coverage for up to two years, despite Medicaid’s annual recertification requirement, and backdated Medicaid benefits for up to two years to create the appearance of continuous eligibility. These actions resulted in an estimated loss of approximately $309, 099.44 in Medicaid funds to the Territory. 

The defendants are charged with multiple offenses, including Medicaid Fraud, Access to Computer for Fraudulent Purposes, Fraudulent Claims Against the Government, and Embezzlement or Falsification of Public Records. The investigation revealed that the employees knowingly bypassed established protocols to enrich themselves or others, violating both program integrity and public trust.

“We will not tolerate the corruption of vital public programs by those entrusted to administer them,” said Attorney General Gordon Rhea. “The alleged conduct in this case represents a deliberate betrayal of duty and a direct attack on the integrity of the Medicaid and SNAP programs. Our office will continue to pursue any individual who abuses government systems for personal gain.”

AG Rhea also emphasized the Virgin Islands government’s active role in combating corruption at all levels.

“While there are ongoing federal investigations into public corruption, it is important for the community to understand that the Government of the Virgin Islands is also actively and independently investigating corruption within its own systems,” Mr. Rhea added. “Our law enforcement and oversight agencies - including the DOJ Special Investigations Division (SID), the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the White Collar Crime and Public Corruption Unit, Office of the Inspector General and the U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) - are working collaboratively to identify, investigate, execute arrests and prosecute criminal conduct. Today’s arrests are the result of the sustained partnership and commitment to accountability. No one is above the law, and when crimes are uncovered, we will act.” the Attorney General concluded. “MFCU will continue to safeguard taxpayer funds and protect services intended for our most vulnerable residents. This case underscores the importance of strong oversight, interagency cooperation, and swift action when fraud is detected.”

The case remains ongoing, and additional investigative steps are being pursued.

Anyone with information regarding this case or any instances of Medicaid fraud is encouraged to contact the MFCU at 888-404-MFCU or at vimfcu@doj.vi.gov.