SPOKANE,Wash. – Spokane dermatologist Dr. William Philip Werschler rebuked claims from federal prosecutors that his practice misused COVID-19 relief funding to purchase jet skis, a car and other personal items.
According to Werschler’s lawyers, he is the victim of embezzlement by a bookkeeper.
“While working for the Clinic between May 2020 to March 2023, the bookkeeper embezzled at least $1,025,372.87 from the Clinic and other entities owned by Dr. Werschler,” Werschler’s lawyers said.
Werschler’s lawyers went on to emphasize the claim that not only is he innocent of the improper use of COVID-19 funds, but also that none of the prosecutor’s claims against his practice concern his medical credentials.
“There are no allegations relating to patient care. There are no allegations regarding competency or ability to practice. This all arises from the use of lower interest loans, which the Clinic and other entities have paid on time and without fail,” Werschler’s attorneys said.
The October indictment against Werschler alleges that his practice mishandled money from the CARES Act, a 2021 policy meant to stabilize the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given that indictments are allegations rather than proof of guilt, Werschler still has the ability to maintain his innocence in court.
