DeLand, FL – A man posing as a registered nurse was arrested Monday after arriving for a job interview at Ridgecrest Health and Rehab Center in deland, the Volusia County SheriffS Office announced. Joseph Kinney, 38, is accused of fraudulently applying for nursing positions using another individual’s credentials.The investigation began in August when a hiring manager at Ridgecrest reported suspicious activity. Authorities later learned the manager had previously encountered Kinney in October 2024 at Indigo Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation in Daytona Beach,where he presented inconsistent documentation and appeared nervous. Deputies discovered Kinney was impersonating a licensed nurse he resided with in Lake Mary.
Kinney’s history includes prior nursing licenses in Alabama, California, and Florida, along with disciplinary actions for offenses including drug diversion, driving under the influence, and providing false facts. Investigators believe Kinney submitted applications-using the fraudulent ID and license-for 10 to 15 nursing jobs, securing employment at two facilities in Seminole and Orange counties, though he left both positions within a week.
Volusia County Sheriff’s Office released body camera footage of Kinney’s arrest. he is currently held at the Volusia County Jail on a $20,000 bond and faces two felony counts of practicing health care without a license,a violation of Florida law. Practicing or offering to practice a healthcare profession without a valid license is a criminal offense in the state.