Casey Smitherman, director of the school in Indiana, accused of using health insurance to help a sick student

A superintendent from Elwood, Indiana, faces charges of insurance fraud after the police said she had used her son's name for to treat a sick student who did not have health insurance, reports WTTV-TV, subsidiary of CBS.

Casey Smitherman was indicted for three crimes and one misdemeanor: malpractice, insurance fraud, fraudulent application and identity fraud. The court records show that she was released on bail of $ 500.

"I understand that she wanted to help a young man in bad shape, but it was probably not the best example to give to young people to adopt other identities and make false statements. "said Madison County Attorney Rodney Cummings. [19659007] Smitherman reported having collected the symptoms of strep throat on school day, a 15-year-old student who had stayed at the school house and had taken him to school. in a medical center, according to a statement given to WTTV. The office refused to treat the student, so Smitherman took him to a second clinic and said the boy was his son, making him sign using his son's name. She also took a prescription for amoxicillin at CVS under her son's name, according to court documents.

"As a parent, I know how serious this disease can be if left untreated, and I took him to an emergency clinic," Smitherman said. in a statement. "I knew that he had no assurance and I wanted to do everything in my power to help him heal." Medical records indicate that the claim for the clinic visit and the order totaled $ 233.

Smitherman told the police that she was worried about the student after her absence from school. She said that she had already bought clothes for him and helped clean his house, according to court documents.

"I know this action was wrong, for the moment my only concern was the health of this child," Smitherman said.

Smitherman stated that she had not contacted the Ministry of Children's Services as she feared that he would be placed in a foster home. The police have since contacted the Department of Child Services to try to get help.

The Elwood School Board issued a statement in favor of Smitherman.

"She made an unfortunate mistake, but we understand that it concerned the well-being of this child," said Brent Kane Board Chair. "We know that she understands that what she's done is wrong, but she continues to benefit from our support."

Smitherman stated that the prosecutor agreed to allow him to participate in a diversion program.