NJ Dr. Used Dead Dentist’s Identity to Treat Patients, Prosecutor’s Office Reports

An unlicensed NJ dentist accused of using the identity of a dead dentist to treat patients has been arrested and charged, according to the NJ Office of Attorney General.

Roben Brookhim, of Short Hills was arrested on Tuesday, Oct. 2  and charged with unlicensed practice of dentistry, identity theft and healthcare claims fraud.

Brookhim is accused of using the name and professional license number of deceased Dr. John Kirkland Jr. to practice dentistry. Dr. Kirkland passed away in October 2011.

Brookhim's license was temporarily suspended in August 1999 amid State complaints of insurance claims fraud and patient record violations.

The Board revoked his license permanently in December 2004 after allegations surfaced that Brookhim was performing dental treatments and submitting billings to insurance claims under the name of another dentist while his license was revoked.

Brookhim was operating as a dentist at Associated Dental offices in New Providence, West Orange and Springfield and also at a Family Dental Center in West New York.

Dr. Kirkland was registered to practice dentistry at all four offices prior to his death. The prosecutor's office says Dr. Kirkland died of natural causes and foul play is not suspected.

“Individuals who practice dentistry, medicine, or any other healthcare profession without a license, or after their license has been revoked, create a significant danger to the health and safety of those who rely on them for help; and those who commit healthcare claims fraud create unjustified additional costs for insurance companies, the State, and, ultimately, taxpayers,” Attorney General Jeffrey S. Chiesa said.  “The allegations against this defendant are serious.  I commend the Union County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Providence Police Department for the important role they played in this investigation and arrest.”