By: Associated Press//June 8, 2018//
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo says the lawyer responsible for missing a costly state trial court deadline should face criminal charges.
The Democrat said Thursday the attorney should be “prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” according to a local TV station.
The state has also requested an investigation, according to the Providence Journal.
The state missed a May 23 deadline to appeal a Rhode Island Superior Court decision because its attorney, Gregory Hazian, didn’t notify the agency about the deadline. Officials also learned Hazian was removed from the state’s attorney rolls in January for not completing continuing legal education requirements.
It’s illegal to practice law without authorization. Hazian resigned Monday.
The case involved Medicaid payments to nursing homes. A state agency lost the judgment, which could cost $24 million through 2019.
The state is now seeking a settlement in the case.