Indictment Details
A high-profile business owner from Phoenix, who once operated the state’s largest special needs clinic, has been charged with defrauding the government of $2.9 million in COVID relief funds. The indictment involves Bridget O’Brien and alleges she used nine companies under her name to fraudulently obtain the funds.
Ongoing Investigations
This indictment is the latest in a series of investigations into O’Brien’s activities. Since 2018, evidence of fraud and non-payment of social workers has surfaced. In 2021, O’Brien was caught on surveillance camera stealing a dog, leading to a guilty plea for theft.
Financial Discrepancies
In 2021, the same month O’Brien began collecting COVID bailout funds, she purchased a nearly $2 million home in Biltmore. Meanwhile, therapists who did contract work for her were not getting paid for months.
Legal Defense
O’Brien’s attorney, Tom Warne, former Attorney General and current State Superintendent, defends her, stating that she obtained the COVID loans under the federal government’s rules. O’Brien has pleaded not guilty and is due back in court next month.
Department of Education Contract
Despite the indictment, one of O’Brien’s companies, Kids A Therapy, remains listed as an authorized tutor for the Arizona Department of Education, making it eligible for additional COVID funds. Superintendent Tom Horn stated that O’Brien is entitled to her day in court.
