Autumn Bardisa, 29, was arrested for impersonating a registered nurse, having treated over 4,000 patients in a state of deception. Authorities emphasize the potential risks posed to patients and the integrity of the medical community.
Allegations of Medical Deception: 'Fake Nurse' in Florida Arrested After Treating Thousands
Allegations of Medical Deception: 'Fake Nurse' in Florida Arrested After Treating Thousands
A woman posing as a registered nurse in Florida has been apprehended, raising concerns about medical fraud and patient safety.
A shocking case of medical fraud has emerged from Florida, where a 29-year-old woman, Autumn Bardisa, was arrested for allegedly impersonating a registered nurse. The investigation began after hospital administrators at AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway raised concerns regarding her qualifications following the termination of her contract.
Between June 2024 and January 2025, Bardisa reportedly provided medical services to 4,486 patients, raising alarms about the extent of her deception. Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly described the case as "one of the most disturbing" he has encountered in the realm of medical fraud. Bardisa’s employment spanned from July 2023 to January 2025, during which she is said to have submitted falsified documents and used a nurse's license number belonging to a legitimate nurse with a similar name—allegedly claiming a recent name change due to marriage when confronted with discrepancies.
Despite being asked to provide documentation proving her marriage, Bardisa failed to do so. Complications arose when she was considered for a promotion; a colleague then alerted authorities upon discovering her nursing assistant license had expired. Following her contract cancellation, an extensive seven-month criminal investigation unfolded.
The investigation culminated in Bardisa's arrest on August 5, conducted at her home while she was still wearing scrubs. She faces multiple charges, including seven counts of practicing healthcare without a license and using personal identification fraudulently. Sheriff Staly condemned Bardisa's actions, indicating that her impersonation could have jeopardized thousands of lives and eroded trust within the healthcare system.
As investigations continue, the Flagler County Sheriff's Office has set up a dedicated email address for patients who suspect they may have been treated by Bardisa. Currently, she remains held at Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility under a bail amount of $70,000 (approximately £52,000), awaiting further legal proceedings.
