Long Island Acupuncturist Sentenced in $24M Fraud Scheme

Junyi Liu ordered to pay $24 million in restitution for stealing from health insurers and pandemic unemployment programs

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Junyi "Jenny" Liu, a 71-year-old acupuncturist from Great Neck, New York, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for orchestrating a scheme to steal $24 million from health insurers and rip off pandemic unemployment insurance programs. Liu was also ordered to pay $24 million in restitution.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing problem of healthcare fraud, which costs the U.S. billions of dollars each year. It also shows how criminals have exploited pandemic relief programs for personal gain, taking funds away from those who legitimately needed assistance.

The details

According to authorities, Liu submitted fraudulent claims to health insurers for acupuncture treatments that were never provided. She also applied for pandemic unemployment benefits using stolen identities. Liu pleaded guilty to the charges in October 2025.

  • On February 26, 2026, Liu was sentenced in Manhattan federal court.
  • Liu pleaded guilty to the charges in October 2025.

The players

Junyi "Jenny" Liu

A 71-year-old acupuncturist from Great Neck, New York, who was sentenced to 18 months in prison for orchestrating a $24 million fraud scheme.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold accountable those who seek to exploit our healthcare system and pandemic relief programs for personal gain.”

— Damian Williams, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York

The takeaway

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and strong oversight to prevent healthcare and pandemic relief fraud, which can have significant financial and societal impacts. It also underscores the need for harsher penalties to deter such criminal behavior.