Alleged Impersonation Scandal Rocks Dental Community in B.C.

CANADA: Emmanuel Osaseri, a former employee of Greenwoods Dental Clinic in Prince Rupert, is at the center of a controversy, facing charges of personation with intent to gain advantage and fraud under $5,000. The 22-year-old is accused of posing as a dental hygienist without the necessary qualifications, prompting concerns and an ongoing investigation.

“Our major crime unit worked in partnership with the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals to determine the legitimacy or not of Mr. Osaseri, and we acted swiftly”, said Sgt. Damian Kowalewich, Saanich Police spokesperson.

Alleged Dental Hygienist Impersonator Faces Criminal Charges

Unmasking Suspicious Activity on Vancouver Island

Saanich Police received several complaints about Osaseri’s work quality, leading to suspicions regarding his role as a dental hygienist. Sgt. Damian Kowalewich stated that Osaseri’s work did not align with industry standards, prompting collaboration with the British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals to assess his legitimacy.

“The individual was identified as Emmanuel Osaseri. His work product was not consistent with industry standards,” said Sgt. Damian Kowalewich, Saanich Police spokesperson.

Identity Deception and Swift Action

Osaseri is believed to have taken on another identity and potentially impersonated a female while working in the dental industry on Vancouver Island. Saanich Police took swift action to prevent further dental treatment to the public, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the situation.

Red Flags Raised at Greenwoods Dental Clinic

Dr. Dheeraj Mittal, head dentist at Greenwoods Dental Clinic, revealed that Osaseri worked at the Prince Rupert clinic for approximately 10 business days in September 2023. Dr. Mittal reported numerous red flags during Osaseri’s short tenure, including tardiness, unprofessionalism, and patient complaints. The clinic terminated Osaseri’s employment after discovering his lack of qualifications.

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“It has taught me a very big lesson,” said Dr. Dheeraj Mittal, Head Dentist, Greenwoods Dental Clinic.

Osaseri allegedly sent falsified certificates and a fake license number during his application to fill the dental hygienist position at Greenwoods. Dr. Mittal initiated a lawsuit against Osaseri in November 2023. Despite the clinic’s vigilance, Osaseri managed to apply with his real name, deceiving Dr. Mittal with claims of relocating from Regina, Saskatchewan.

Lack of Registration Raises Concerns

The BC College of Oral Health Professionals confirmed that Osaseri has never been a registered dental professional, raising questions about the hiring process. Employers are urged to ensure the registration of dental professionals and be cautious about referrals to maintain patient safety.

“Employers are responsible for ensuring that all the oral health care professionals they hire are registered/certified with BCCOHP,” said Dr. Chris Hacker, Registrar and CEO, BCCOHP.

Offering Free Dental Care and Onoing Investigation.

In response to the alleged misconduct, Dr. Mittal is offering free dental care to clients who were worked on by Osaseri during his time at Greenwoods. Saanich Police encourages anyone with information on Osaseri’s whereabouts to contact them, as he is currently at large across B.C.

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