Labtech Diagnostics of Anderson, South Carolina, and its CEO, Joseph Labash, will pay at least $6.8 million to settle federal allegations of illegal kickbacks to local physicians.

 

This resolution pushes total civil recoveries from Labtech-related cases over $11.5 million, including previous settlements with nine area doctors.

 

Labtech also agreed to plead guilty to five criminal counts for offering and paying kickbacks disguised as rent, phlebotomy, or toxicology fees in exchange for lab test referrals between 2018 and 2021.

 

The scheme allegedly involved hand-delivered money orders and fraudulent contracts, with further claims of inflated equipment deals and free services to practices.

 

Whistleblower Mahmod Altwam will receive $1.36 million from the settlement.

 

In December 2021, Quest Diagnostics acquired most Labtech assets, integrating its Anderson lab and expanding Quest’s presence across South Carolina communities.

 

Federal officials stress the need for healthcare decisions to focus on patients, not profits, and urge reports of suspected fraud.

Duke Energy is pushing forward with plans for a major $3.2 billion natural gas power plant in Anderson County, South Carolina.

 

This 1,400-megawatt facility aims to meet growing electricity demand fueled by rapid local development.

 

Construction could begin in 2027, pending state approval, with operations expected by early 2031.

 

Set on nearly 200 acres along Highway 81 South, the plant will use existing transmission lines to efficiently power homes and businesses statewide.

 

Duke Energy has teamed up with GE Vernova for advanced turbines manufactured in Greenville, highlighting support for South Carolina industry and innovation.

 

The facility's air-cooling design will significantly conserve water and limit environmental impact.

 

The construction phase is projected to pump $440 million annually into the state economy, create about 2,200 jobs, and provide $160 million in labor income each year.

 

Local cooperatives will own a 7% stake, promoting shared benefits across the region.

 

The project has received local tax incentives and community engagement is ongoing, with opportunities for public input before final decisions.