The investigators independently arrested home nurse Stefanie Sander (42), but her mother, her partner and an employee were also arrested. Seventeen luxury vehicles, luxury goods, real estate and cash were also seized during the searches. After questioning, the Vlaams Belang municipal councilor and her partner were brought before the investigating judge. He decided to arrest Sander on suspicion of social fraud. Her husband was released on conditions.
Millions of euros
According to the Labor Audit Office, Stefanie Sander committed extensive fraud when reporting her performance. Self-employed home nurses must report their services to the RIZIV themselves, after which they are paid by the health insurance fund of the patient in question. By reporting fictitious performances, the suspect allegedly wrongly collected millions of euros.
Occupation
On January 2, Stefanie Sander was placed under electronic surveillance by the Ghent indictment chamber (KI). On Friday morning, Master Kris Vincke successfully asked the council chamber to release his client under conditions. The West Flemish department of the Ghent Labor Audit Office can still appeal against that decision. In that case, the AI would have to make the decision again within two weeks. Pending that hearing, the suspect would have to continue wearing an ankle monitor.
