Authorities in Florida have apprehended a woman from Palm Coast who allegedly pretended to be a nurse, caring for thousands of patients despite not having the necessary qualifications.

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) announced that 29-year-old Autumn Bardisa was detained at her residence while wearing medical attire, as noted in a release shared on the department’s Facebook page.

She is accused of presenting herself as a licensed nurse and administering medical care to more than 4,400 people between June 2024 and January 2025.

Investigations revealed that Bardisa did not possess a valid nursing license during her employment. She worked at AdventHealth Palm Coast Parkway starting in July 2023, and her contract was terminated in January 2025 due to internal concerns.

Police claim Autumn Bardisa posed as a licensed nurse and provided medical care to more than 4,400 patients. (Flagler County Sheriff’s Office)

Bardisa is facing multiple charges, including seven felony counts of unlicensed medical practice and seven counts of identity theft. She is currently held at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility with bond set at $70,000.

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly described the case as one of the most disturbing incidents of medical fraud his office has investigated.

“This individual may have endangered countless lives by impersonating a licensed professional, compromising the trust of patients, their families, AdventHealth, and the larger medical community,” a spokesperson commented. “Owing to the combined efforts of our detectives, the State Attorney, Florida’s 7th Circuit R.J. Larizza’s Office, AdventHealth, and our state and federal partners, she will now face consequences for her negligent and perilous conduct.”

Officials said anyone who believes they may be a victim of Bardisa should contact the FCSO by email at fakenursecase@flaglersheriff.com. 

Fox News Digital reached out to AdventHealth for comment but did not immediately receive a response. 

Stepheny Price reports for Fox News Digital and Fox Business, focusing on topics such as missing persons, homicides, national crime stories, and illegal immigration. Suggestions and tips can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com