How fake nurse convicted in Michigan ended up getting nursing jobs in 2 other states
A woman has been sentenced to 75 months in federal prison for an elaborate scheme in which she fraudulently posed as a registered nurse in Michigan, and subsequently secured medical jobs in two other states, according to federal authorities.
Leticia Gallarzo, who has no formal nursing degree or valid license, was convicted for using the identity and licensing number of an actual Michigan-licensed nurse to obtain employment at a Grand Rapids hospice care facility in August 2022.
Officials stated that Gallarzo fabricated a comprehensive portfolio of false credentials, including a fake nursing license, a diploma purportedly from George Washington University, and fraudulent identification documents. Using these, she was not only hired but later promoted to a managerial position, where she supervised other healthcare professionals and performed duties including patient assessments, medication administration, and starting intravenous lines.
Her performance ultimately raised suspicions at the facility, leading to a demotion. According to court documents, Gallarzo then began seeking other nursing employment. Her fraud was uncovered when a potential employer conducted a background check and discovered her true identity, prompting a report to authorities.
This marks the third known conviction for Gallarzo related to nursing impersonation, with prior convictions in Kent County, Michigan in 2016 and in Texas in 2017.
Gallarzo was charged with fraud and aggravated identity theft in September 2023 and pleaded guilty that same year. However, prior to her sentencing, she fled Michigan and obtained positions in the medical field in both Illinois and California. She was later arrested and extradited back to Michigan to face judgment.
On Monday, January 26, U.S. District Judge sentenced Gallarzo to 75 months—over six years—in prison. The sentence covers charges of creating false medical records to pose as a licensed nurse and for aggravated identity theft.
“This defendant systematically deceived healthcare employers, putting vulnerable patients at risk while assuming a position of profound trust,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten in a statement. “This significant sentence underscores the serious consequences of healthcare fraud and identity theft.”
The case has been investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the Michigan State Police.