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Dodgy Dentist Flees UK, Jailed in Absentia
23 Sep
Summary
- Dentist Fariba Shameli defrauded NHS of over £92,000.
- She fled to Sweden after being charged with fraud.
- Shameli was sentenced to three years in prison in her absence.
Fariba Shameli, a dentist contracted at Findon Dental Care in Worthing, Sussex, has been sentenced to three years in prison for defrauding the NHS of £92,511.74. The fraud, which occurred between 2013 and 2018, involved hundreds of claims for work that was either not performed, carried out privately, or done by a trainee dentist. Shameli also manipulated claim dates to meet targets.
Shameli pleaded not guilty to all charges, including four counts of fraud by abuse of position. She was found guilty in absentia following trials in September 2025 and July 2026 at Hove Crown Court. She fled to Sweden after making two court appearances and was sentenced in her absence at Lewes Crown Court on an unspecified date after July 2026.
Prosecutors announced they will pursue confiscation and extradition to bring Shameli back to the UK. Evidence included patient records, laboratory statements, and testimonies from patients and a trainee dentist. The NHS Counter Fraud Authority confirmed it will use the Proceeds of Crime Act to reclaim funds, emphasizing Shameli's abuse of trust and the impact on public confidence.
