New Horizons Computer Learning Centers In Tampa And Orlando Resolve Post-9/11 GI Bill Allegations

Tampa, FL – Two New Horizons Computer Learning Center franchises and their owner agreed to pay $1,350,000 to resolve allegations that the schools overcharged the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by failing to report tuition waivers and scholarships provided to VA-supported students and by falsely certifying compliance with Title 38’s ban on incentive compensation tied to student enrollment.

The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Assistance Act of 2008 (“GI Bill”) financially supports service members, veterans, and their eligible dependents who attend an education or training program at an educational institution. The longer a person serves in the military, the greater the benefits available under the GI Bill. If a school offers to waive tuition for a student receiving less than 100-percent assistance, that tuition waiver must be reported to the VA and the student’s portion reduced accordingly. Additionally, Title 38 prohibits participating schools from paying any commission, bonus, or other incentive payment based directly or indirectly on securing student enrollments.

The United States alleged that, between 2017 and 2021, LTJ Group V, LLC, and Innovak of Florida, Inc., which did business as New Horizons Computer Learning Centers in Tampa, Florida, and Orlando, Florida, failed to report tuition waivers for students receiving less than 100-percent assistance under the GI Bill and falsely certified compliance with Title 38 by paying commissions, bonuses, or other incentive payments to enrollment representatives.

The settlement resolves United States v. Robert J. Remington, et al., Case No. 8:24-cv-511-TPB-UAM. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. No determination of liability has occurred.

“The Post-9/11 GI Bill recognizes the bravery and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans by providing them the opportunity to obtain education and training necessary to furthering a post-military career,” said United States Attorney Roger Handberg. “My office will continue to work with the VA to ensure compliance with GI Bill requirements and to vigilantly protect the program’s financial viability.”

“The settlement announced today demonstrates the VA Office of Inspector General’s commitment to aggressively pursuing individuals and schools who target veterans’ education benefits,” said Special Agent in Charge David Spilker with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Southeast Field Office.

“The VA OIG will continue to work with its law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of VA’s education benefits program.”

This resolution results from a coordinated effort by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida and the Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General. Senior Litigation Counsel Lindsay S. Griffin and Assistant United States Attorney Mamie V. Wise handled the investigation and prosecution of the case.