A routine traffic stop led to an arrest that is shaking Pennsylvania’s long‑term care sector. Authorities say a woman posed as multiple nurses across the state, endangering vulnerable patients and piling up dozens of criminal charges.
Shannon Nicole Womack, 39, was taken into custody Monday after investigators linked her to roughly 20 aliases and seven Social Security numbers. She now faces 43 counts ranging from identity theft to endangering the welfare of a care‑dependent person. Police allege she fabricated credentials, formed a shell staffing agency, and slipped into nursing homes as everything from a licensed practical nurse to a supervisor.
How investigators uncovered a web of aliases and false identities that spanned several states
The case broke open in April when troopers stopped Womack on Interstate 79 and she handed over bogus identification. Curious? Officers soon learned each name in her wallet came with its own Social Security number. A court‑approved search of her vehicle turned up prescription bottles in other people’s names, forged nursing licenses, and medical equipment stashed in her trunk.
Before you ask, how did she pass background checks for years? Detectives say the pandemic depleted staffing, and facilities sometimes accepted paperwork at face value.
Key criminal accusations
- Endangering the welfare of a care‑dependent person
- Identity theft and forgery of professional licenses
- Falsely holding herself out as a licensed nurse
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
What this alleged nursing scam means for patients and care facilities scrambling to hire qualified staff
Patient advocates worry the incident exposes gaping holes in credential checks. “If someone could do this for years, what does that say about safeguards?” one family member asked. Regulators urge facilities to cross‑verify licenses directly with state boards. Genuine nurses now fear reputational damage—who wants their hard‑earned license doubted because of a fraudster? Here’s a quick snapshot of the case:
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Alleged activity | 2020–2024 |
| Reported aliases | ~20 |
| Social Security numbers | 7 |
| Real nurses impersonated | 4 |
| Bail set | $250,000 |
Key dates, next court appearance and steps families can take to protect loved ones in care settings
Womack is due back in court July 29. Prosecutors expect more victims as records from every facility she entered are reviewed. Worried about your relative’s nurse? First, confirm the caregiver’s license on your state’s professional‑licensing website. Then, request periodic staffing rosters—most facilities must provide them on demand.
Consequently, this arrest may spur nationwide hiring reforms. Nevertheless, facilities remain under pressure to fill shifts. After all, who will care for patients tonight?