In early 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigations (“FBI”) announced a large-scale fraudulent nursing diploma scheme in Florida based nursing schools. The investigation has become known as “Operation Nightingale.”
Operation Nightingale was launched to uncover fraudulent schemes in which fake nursing diplomas were sold, allowing individuals to circumvent the required education and licensure steps. While the primary targets are those who facilitated the diploma fraud, many nurses who may have innocently received their credentials are now at risk of losing their licenses.
Nursing Schools Involved in the Investigation
If you obtained a degree from the following schools, you may be implicated in the Operation Nightingale investigation:
- Med-Life Institute West Palm Beach
- Sunshine Academy
- Palm Beach School of Nursing
- Quisqueya
- Siena College of Health and Siena College of Health II
- Scared Heart International Institute
- Florida College of Health Sciences
- Sigma College
- Carleen Health Institute and Carleen Home Health II
- Carleen Home Health School II
- Ideal Professional Institute
- Jay College of Health
- Quisqueya Health Care Academy
- Siena Education Center LLC
- Sigma Institute of Health Care Careers
- The Enfimye Institute
- Med-Life Lauderdale Lakes
- Myrielle School of Nursing
- Nursing Bridge Institute
- Palm Beach International College
- Suncoast College of Health
- Techni Pro Institute
Virginia Board of Nursing Response
If you are a Virginia nurse and have been notified of an investigation, it is important to act swiftly and responsibly. The Virginia Board of Nursing and other state boards are taking serious action, and the consequences could include:
- License suspension or revocation
- Civil or criminal penalties
- Damage to your professional reputation.
Many nurses find themselves caught in this investigation due to educational programs they believed were legitimate. Whether you were knowingly or unknowingly involved, the investigation requires a well-planned legal response.
Defending your License
At our firm, we understand the complexity and sensitivity of these cases. As a Virginia-based law firm, we are committed to defending nurses facing investigations related to Operation Nightingale, helping you navigate the legal process and protect your career.
Here’s how we can assist:
- Initial Case Evaluation: We will review your case and determine the best course of action based on your specific situation.
- Representation Before the Board: We will represent you before your nursing board, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.
- License Defense Strategy: Our legal team will develop a tailored defense strategy aimed at protecting your nursing license and career.
- Mitigating Consequences: Even if a violation occurred, we will work to minimize the impact on your professional future.
If you have been contacted by the Virginia Board of Nursing regarding your education, it is important to consult with an attorney. Our attorneys have handled many of these cases and can help you navigate how the investigation may impact you.
