A settlement has been reached to resolve False Claims Act allegations against Charles River Laboratories International Inc.
The allegations arose from a lawsuit that claimed Charles River Laboratories International Inc improperly charged for labor and other associated costs that were not actually provided on certain National Institutes of Health contracts.
“Contractors are expected to deal fairly with federal agencies when receiving taxpayer funds,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad A. Readler of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to ensure that contractors spend taxpayer dollars appropriately and that those who do not are held accountable.”
The company holds contracts for services related to the development, maintenance and distribution of colonies of animals, and the provision of laboratory animals.
According to the Justice Department, the company billed for labor and associated costs of employees at facilities in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Kingston, New York, but these employees didn't render the services claimed.
Charles River revealed the improper billing to the Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services. The company stated that it has cooperated to ensure proper repayment and resolution.
