Lashawn Denise Anthony, 41, of Wetumpka was arraigned today on charges that she stole over $750,000 from Alabama Medicaid, announced George L. Beck, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama.

The 10-count indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges Anthony with committing health care fraud through her business, Youth Enhancement and Family Services, Inc.  Youth Enhancement and Family Services, Inc.

As you and your family are out enjoying the festivities of the holiday season, you are at risk of being a victim of theft in two major ways. The holiday season brings a significant increase in property theft crimes and identity theft crimes during this time of year.
 
A large number of home burglaries occur during the winter months when many homeowners are out-of-town for the holidays and the house is full of gifts received and to-be-given. Crooks will steal electronics and jewelry and even the presents under the tree.
 
“Everyone needs to make sure their homes are not an ‘easy mark’ for thieves determined to steal their holiday joy,” said Renee Carter, state director of the Alabama Insurance Information Service. "By taking some simple precautions, homeowners can prevent burglaries at this hectic time of year."
 
But in today’s technology driven society, the presents under the trees are not the only items at risk of being stolen.

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - A 25-year-old Elmore County man pleaded guilty Monday to production of child pornography. Joshua Ray Parton is said to have coerced a young boy into sexually explicit conduct, said U.S. Attorney George L. Beck, Jr. Parton then used his cell phone camera to video his molestation of the child. 

The incident started around May 1, 2011.

Parton faces no less than 15 years and as much as 40 years in federal prison, based on his guilty plea, and could be ordered to spend the rest of his life on supervised release, Beck's office confirmed. 

“Children are to be treasured not molested and abused,” Beck said.