
Kennith Bell, who embezzled $1.2 million from an orthodontic practice, attempted to discharge the resulting restitution obligation through bankruptcy proceedings. A federal judge ruled that the debt survived bankruptcy and remained payable in full — a significant reminder that court-ordered restitution arising from criminal conduct is generally not extinguishable through a bankruptcy filing.
The unique payment structures, treatment contracts, and trust placed in front-office staff make orthodontic practices especially vulnerable. Prosperident specializes in orthodontic embezzlement investigations and prevention.