Convicted Identity Thief Who Caused Autistic Children to Regress While Pretending to Be a Certified Therapist Sentenced to Years in Prison

A convicted identity thief who posed as a certified behavioral therapist and caused autistic children to regress while working at a Michigan therapy center has been sentenced to years in prison.

A 2021 investigation revealed that Casey Codendiskin, a convicted felon, stole medical credentials to work at the Oxford Recovery Center in Brighton, Michigan, pretending to be a certified behavioral specialist, Fox 2 Detroit reported.

During Codendiskin's tenure, she treated vulnerable autistic children, with parents later reporting significant regression in their development.

"I worry not only for Kennedy but for other families who may unwillingly place their trust in this institution," Kim Harden said of her 10-year-old daughter whom she had sent to the recovery center.

After being exposed in 2021 and facing legal proceedings, Codendiskin was sentenced Tuesday to a prison term for identity theft and fraud, as well as for the harm caused to children and families who entrusted her with their care.

Families affected by Codendiskin's actions are seeking continued therapy for their children to address the regression caused during her fraudulent practice.