GOP candidate still in race even after criminal charge is filed (Michigan)
WEST BRANCH (WJRT) - (08/13/15) - A Mid-Michigan doctor was back in court on Thursday, accused of criminal sexual conduct.
Forty-eight-year-old Dr. Vijay Kumar is facing serious charges and an unrelated federal fraud investigation, but despite the allegations, he says he's not backing down from running for political office.
Kumar had some endorsements for his state house run in the 103rd district. He has lost most of those, but he has not pulled out of the race.
"Dr. Kumar is extremely bright, and so his mind is always working," said Brian Morley, one of two attorneys Kumar has retained.
What is on the mind of Kumar right now is clearing his name after being charged with second degree criminal sexual conduct involving a teenage girl. The criminal charge stems from an incident that occurred two years ago.
"They are old allegations," Morley said.
The CSC charge isn't Kumar's only legal problem. His five ADAPT Physical Therapy offices were searched in connection with a federal and state investigation into Medicaid fraud, Medicare fraud and insurance health care fraud. Investigators say he submitted false claims for payment of health care benefits. No criminal charges have been filed in that case.
"I think he has five businesses. He reopened at least a few of them," Morley said.
Kumar apparently is keeping his political options open. He is the only declared candidate for the 103rd State House seat that will be up for grabs next year because Bruce Rendon will be term-limited.
His 'Vote Vijay' website is still up, and although he has lost some endorsements since he was criminally charged, Morley says his client has not dropped out of the race.
"I know he was running an election and he was apparently doing quite well, and I'm not sure this is going to stop him," Morley said.
Kumar's preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Sept. 10.
http://www.abc12.com/home/headlines/GOP-candidate-still-in-race-even-after-criminal-charge-is-filed-321811912.html
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