Middletown Resident Sentenced in Medicaid Fraud Case

Darlene Shuff-Porter pleaded guilty to defrauding Medicaid through false claims and using unlicensed staff.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Darlene Shuff-Porter, a 66-year-old Middletown resident who owned a counseling practice in Meriden, was sentenced to three years in prison, execution suspended, with five years of conditional discharge for defrauding Medicaid by submitting fraudulent claims for work she did not perform and allowing unlicensed individuals to provide behavioral health services. Shuff-Porter pleaded guilty in October 2025 to first-degree larceny by defrauding a public community and health insurance fraud, and paid $55,410.69 in restitution.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of Medicaid fraud, which costs taxpayers billions of dollars each year and undermines the integrity of the healthcare system. It also raises concerns about the oversight and licensing of behavioral health providers to ensure patients receive proper care.

The details

An investigation by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit found that between December 2018 and April 2020, Shuff-Porter billed Medicaid for psychotherapy services that were not rendered. Evidence showed her practice, Dailey Professional Counseling Services, was not meeting with clients as reported, but Shuff-Porter was still submitting claims to the Department of Social Services for payment. She was also utilizing unlicensed employees to meet with clients and then billing as if licensed qualified services were provided.

  • On February 11, 2026, Judge Tracy Lee Dayton sentenced Shuff-Porter.
  • On October 20, 2025, Shuff-Porter pleaded guilty in New Haven Superior Court.

The players

Darlene Shuff-Porter

A 66-year-old Middletown resident who owned Dailey Professional Counseling Services in Meriden and was convicted of Medicaid fraud.

Patrick J. Griffin

The Chief State's Attorney who announced Shuff-Porter's sentencing.

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What they’re saying

“By pleading guilty to two program-related felonies, the defendant is also subject to mandatory exclusion as a health care provider to certain federally funded health programs pursuant to federal and state laws and regulations.”

— Patrick J. Griffin, Chief State's Attorney (Patch.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Shuff-Porter out on bail during her appeal process.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong oversight and enforcement to combat Medicaid fraud, which can divert critical healthcare resources away from those who truly need them. It also underscores the need for rigorous licensing and monitoring of behavioral health providers to ensure patient safety and quality of care.