10 Baltimore Residents Indicted in Fraudulent Nursing Certifications Scheme
Bribery, conspiracy charges carry possible 12-year sentences, $5,000 fines

Baltimore, MD (April 12, 2012) - Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler announced today that 10 individuals have been indicted by the Grand Jury of the Circuit Court for Baltimore City and charged with Bribery and Conspiracy to Commit Bribery for a scheme arising from the sale of fraudulent Maryland Nursing Assistant certifications.

Those charged are Malika Yakini James, 37, a former employee at the Maryland Board of Nursing; Natiakia Monique Sanders, 37; Yolanda Terrelle Dunham, 31; Vickeara Lashawn Green, 32; Joyce Annette Johnson, 37; Tyesha Renee Jones, 32; Raymonia Yvonne Foreman, 31; Aisha Wendy Randolph, 33; Vernetta Shaquanda Hamilton, 26; and India Lania Beauford, 24, all of Baltimore. 

Bribery and Conspiracy to Commit Bribery are misdemeanors punishable by not less than two years in prison and not exceeding 12 years, and a fine not less than $100 and not exceeding $5,000. A Criminal indictment is merely an accusation of wrongdoing, and all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent unless and until the State proves the individual guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Arraignment is scheduled for April 17, April 24 and May 29.  

The case is being prosecuted by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Maryland Attorney General's Office with assistance from the Maryland State Police.