🎙️Episode 28: Fraud, Family & False Success: The Brandon Simms Story

EPISODE DESCRIPTION  What happens when healthcare turns into a hustle? In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, we’re breaking down the $12 million Medicaid fraud scheme led by Brandon Sims and members of his own family. This case goes beyond fraud. It raises questions about trust, image, and the systems meant to protect vulnerable communities. Reports suggest Sims also presented himself as a successful entrepreneur, adding another layer to a story that already feels too calculated to be coincidence. We’re unpacking:How the scheme workedThe role of family in the operationThe real impact of Medicaid fraudAnd how image can be used to build credibility in scamsPlus, this week’s iced coffee is The Paper Trail Latte; and yes, the full recipe is belowWhen does a hustle become harm?Main Topics Covered:Overview of the $12 million Medicaid fraud schemeHow Medicaid fraud operations typically workThe involvement of multiple family membersThe role of perceived success and public imageThe broader impact on patients and healthcare systemsIced Coffee of the Week: The Paper Trail Latte Flavor vibe: smooth, rich, layered… but a little sneaky Ingredients (24 oz)2 tsp Nescafé Blonde (or mocha for a deeper flavor)3 oz hot water1 oz vanilla syrup (use your Mexican vanilla 👀)1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk1 tbsp dulce de leche sauce (plus extra for lining the cup)Ice (ALWAYS last, we stand on that)Oat milk (fill to top)Optional Cold Foam2 oz half & halfSplash of vanilla syrupInstructionsDissolve instant coffee in hot waterStir in vanilla syrup + condensed milkLine your cup with dulce de lecheFill cup with icePour coffee mixture over iceTop with oat milkAdd cold foam and drizzle more dulce de leche on topSip or Spill Question If someone builds an image of success while committing fraud behind the scenes… Is that just part of the scam, or does it cross into something deeper?SUPPORT THE SHOWFollow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone who thinks online romance fraud could never happen to them.Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochetPatreon: JOIN HEREFacebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & CrochetYouTube: WATCH HERESOURCESU.S. Department of Justice press releasesLocal Houston news coverageCourt documents and indictmentsPublic records related to Medicaid fraud investigationsDISCLAIMER This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information is based on publicly available sources. Allegations discussed are based on reported findings and legal proceedings. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research.