A University of Pittsburgh professor must repay over $130,000 to resolve allegations that he violated the False Claims Act by submitting false documents to the National Science Foundation (NSF) just to obtain federal grants to fund his research.
About The False Claims Act
In 1863 to combat fraud in Union contracts during the Civil War, Congress passed the Whistleblower or Qui Tam statute. It was not until 1986 before Congress modernized the Whistleblower statute and renamed it to the False Claims Act (FCA). It became the government’s primary tool to combat fraud. Individuals who report government-program fraud bring the lawsuit on behalf of the government.
The Law Protects and Rewards a Whistleblower
When a knowledgeable attorney like those found at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm files a False Claims Act lawsuit, he or she files it under a seal. This means it is completely confidential. There is also a full disclosure statement in the suit, which details the evidence collected by a whistleblower.
After we file your suit, the Department of Justice will review the evidence. Then, the agency decides if it will prosecute the case. The government’s fraud investigator will work closely with you, the whistleblower to identify all responsible for the fraud.
You could be entitled to 15-30% of the funds recovered. In order to receive the reward, you must be the first one to file a case under the False Claims Act. This is why it is key to pick an experienced attorney to work quickly to get your compensation.
Federal Grant Fraud
For 20 years, the University of Pittsburgh professor has served as Principal Investigator on more than 24 awards from National Science Foundation (NSF). The value of the awards is over $50 million. The main area of his research frequently involves human subjects. When research involves human subjects, NSF requires institutional review board (IRB) approvals. This ensures researchers respect the rights and welfare of human subjects. The professor created false IRB approvals and submitted them to NSF for multiple proposals totaling over $2 million.
Besides repaying $132,027 for the federal grant fraud, the professor cannot apply or participate in any federal grants until October 15, 2019. Also, he must withdraw from any pending applications for federal funding, provide certifications and assurances of truthfulness to NSF for up to five years. Additionally, he cannot be Principal Investigator again for three years.
Get Help From Premier Complex Litigation Attorneys
The Michael Brady Lynch Firm has successfully represented thousands of consumers and recovered millions of dollars for their clients. Our team of attorneys has been recognized as some of the most experienced and successful in the country. Our award-winning staff is also sought after for our knowledge on complex litigation, scientific evidence development, negotiation strategies and trial tactics.
Most of all, our law office is resourceful and dedicated to pursuing any compensation you are due. Because of this, we have received a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, such as inclusion on numerous Plaintiff Steering Committees. We will take whatever legal measures are necessary when fighting for your rights to damages.
Therefore, if you believe you have uncovered evidence of fraud involving a government-funded program, contact us today. Our attorneys have represented many clients in the past with complex cases. We will work tirelessly to obtain results on your behalf.