Investigation into New Jersey Sharing Network

The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office has confirmed its investigation into the New Jersey Sharing Network, an organ procurement organization. This follows allegations from more than a dozen whistleblowers who claim the organization has been involved in various unlawful activities, including an alleged cover-up regarding attempts to retrieve organs from patients who were still alive.

Accusations against the New Jersey Sharing Network, which operates as a tax-exempt entity, include fraudulent Medicare billing, inappropriate removal of patients from waiting lists, organ harvesting without valid consent, fraudulent research programs funded by taxpayers, and fostering a culture of fear and retaliation among employees.

“The only way patients can be protected is for law enforcement to intervene and address these criminal actions.”

During a recent hearing by the House Ways and Means Committee, several whistleblowers discussed this troubling pattern among organ procurement organizations (OPOs) across the nation.

“I think a significant issue is the lack of updated information provided to families concerning actual neurological function,” remarked Nicoletta Martin, a former employee of an OPO. “We never really give our patients a chance.”

Jennifer Erickson, a senior fellow at the Federation of American Scientists, described the accusations against the New Jersey Sharing Network as “appalling,” representing not just a severe breach of public trust but also a possible legal violation.

She stated, “There has been a case where a patient, declared dead, was resuscitated, and the CEO directed the on-site staff to proceed with organ recovery. Several whistleblowers have suggested documents related to this incident were deleted or altered.”

Erickson called for ongoing scrutiny of the New Jersey Sharing Network and suggested the revocation of its accreditation.

On November 19, Reps. Jason Smith (R-Missouri) and David Schweikert (R-Ariz.) of the House Ways and Means Committee reached out to the New Jersey Sharing Network, requesting documentation and transcripts from over 30 staff interviews to aid in their investigation of the whistleblower claims.

The AG’s office has acknowledged they are looking into these serious allegations. A spokesperson stated, “We are aware of potential misconduct involving the New Jersey Organ and Tissue Sharing Network as referenced in communications from the U.S. House of Representatives. We are devoted to ensuring the organ donation system operates correctly and that it fulfills its intended purpose. We encourage anyone with information to contact the Division of Criminal Justice at 609-376-2330.”

Greg Segal, founder and CEO of an organ donation advocacy group, commented on the AG’s announcement, saying, “After 15 years advocating for organ donation, it seems clear to me that law enforcement must step in and address any criminal behavior. Thank you to the New Jersey Attorney General. It’s time to clean house.”

The New Jersey Sharing Network has not responded to requests for comment.