April 22, 2024
WASHINGTON – Amtrak can better use the data it already collects to improve the customer experience, according to a report from the Amtrak Office of Inspector General released today.
The OIG identified three opportunities, mostly related to communications, for Amtrak to use its customer feedback data to bolster its overall service improvement efforts.
An Amtrak car inspector based in New York, New York, violated company policies by engaging in outside employment as a bus operator; providing security services at night clubs, lounges, and bars; and working as a bouncer while on a medical leave of absence. The employee was on a medical leave of absence from the company since November 8, 2015, and had not returned to work. On March 6, 2024, after his corporate trial and in accordance with his union agreement, the employee forfeited his seniority and is considered out of service.
David Pugliese, a resident of Palm Beach County, Florida, was sentenced on January 12, 2024, in U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida, for Conspiracy to Commit Health Care Fraud. Pugliese was sentenced to 30 months in prison, two years’ probation, and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $2,238,699. Pugliese was the manager and registered agent of Capital Advantage Diagnostics, LLC, which was purportedly in the business of performing a variety of laboratory tests for various health care providers.
An Amtrak engineer based in Miami, Florida, signed a waiver of administrative hearing on October 9, 2023, following a year-long investigation into time and attendance abuses by a Miami-based yard crew. By signing the waiver, the employee waived his rights to an administrative hearing and accepted responsibility for the administrative charges against him and understood that future misconduct may result in termination.
December 26, 2023
WASHINGTON — Two individuals were sentenced December 15, 2023, for their roles in a multi-state scheme to defraud health insurance companies, including those used by Amtrak, by using rural hospitals to bill for unnecessary drug testing.
I am pleased to submit the Amtrak Office of Inspector General (OIG) Semiannual Report to the United States Congress for the six months ending September 30, 2023, which summarizes our independent and objective reviews and investigations related to Amtrak’s programs and operations.
An Amtrak Foreman based in Springfield, Massachusetts, violated company policies by leaving company property on five occasions without authorization during paid shifts in June through July 2023. On these occasions, he left his subordinates without supervision, and he did so even after receiving specific directives to the contrary from his supervisor and another foreman. During his interview with OIG agents, the employee admitted to his activities.