DELAND, FL – A Volusia County man is under arrest after allegedly posing as a nurse to obtain a job interview at a healthcare center, using a fake identity in a well-planned ruse. Joseph Kinney, who has been implicated in similar scams before, was caught red-handed with fraudulent credentials.
Kinney’s arrest unfolded at Ridgecrest Health and Rehab Center, where he arrived to interview for a nursing role. He handed over a driver’s license with his photo but his roommate’s name, whose nursing credentials are legitimate. Kinney’s own license was revoked in 2022.
Sheriff Mike Chitwood reported that Kinney used elaborate disguises, including makeup and a toupee, to execute his scheme. The HR director immediately spotted irregularities in the ID, particularly the missing hologram.
Her thorough investigation revealed Kinney’s deceit through online profiles and social media, leading to his arrest on charges of practicing healthcare without a license.
Kinney appeared in court, facing charges with a bond set at $10,000 for each offense, totaling $20,000. Although he insists he has not treated patients since his license was revoked, the investigation remains active.
He applied to numerous healthcare facilities across Central Florida, briefly working in two, according to authorities. Kinney’s criminal history, marked by drug charges, adds layers to the ongoing investigation.
Detectives are calling on the public to provide information regarding Kinney’s actions. They aim to fully understand the extent of his fraudulent activities and protect community safety.
This case underscores the necessity for rigorous checks within the healthcare industry, where trust and safety are paramount.