PITTSBURGH, PA — Shannon Womack, 39, has been arrested by Pennsylvania State Police and charged with impersonating a nurse and working at multiple healthcare facilities across western Pennsylvania for the past five years without a valid license.
Investigators revealed that Womack used the identities and nursing certifications of four legitimate nurses from southern states to secure employment as a licensed practical nurse, registered nurse, and registered nurse supervisor.
Trooper Rocco Gagliardi explained that Womack worked in a variety of facilities, including:
Corner View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Eldercrest Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center
Harmar Village Health and Rehab Center (Allegheny County)
Beaver Valley Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center (Beaver County)
Greenery Center for Rehab and Nursing
Southmont of Presbyterian Seniorcare (Washington County)
Oak Hill Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center (Westmoreland County)
Sayre HealthCare Center (Bradford County)
St. Mary’s Home of Erie (Erie County)
At each location, Womack was placed on a “do not retain” list due to professional misconduct, poor performance, and allegations of stealing drugs including oxycodone.
The investigation began in April during a traffic stop in Cecil Township when Womack provided multiple aliases and was found to have numerous active warrants. A search of her vehicle uncovered multiple forms of ID, medical records, and prescription medications linked to nursing home residents.
Authorities found Womack used about 20 different aliases and seven Social Security numbers to obtain jobs, even creating her own staffing agency to place herself in nursing roles. She also provided fake references to pass background checks.
Womack faces nearly two dozen charges, including corrupt organizations, endangering the welfare of care recipients, identity theft, forgery, theft, and unlawful use of a computer.
Washington County District Attorney Jason Walsh condemned Womack’s actions as a “vile act,” emphasizing the harm caused to elderly patients deprived of proper care and medications.
State police are collaborating with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Department of State to notify affected families and anticipate additional arrest warrants from other states as the investigation continues.
