One of all-time favorite movies is Catch Me If You Can, which retells the true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr., a slick con-artist who assumed the role of a lawyer, doctor, and Pan Am pilot (at different times) without any degree or formal training.
Yesterday, a respected cardiologist who lectured some of the country’s leading doctors was exposed as a fraud. He’s also a United Airlines pilot.
After some digging, the Associated Press found that William Hamman attended medical school for a few years, but never graduated. Hamman also claimed to have medical residency and 15 years of clinical experience. Nope. Turns out he didn’t.
But he is a genuine United Airlines pilot…at least for now. United has suspended him pending a review of his deception.
I am sure it was nice while it lasted, but I hope Hamman now finds out that it is always best to be honest.
I doubt he will be allowed out to consult. Pending the results of the various investigations, he better enjoy his last days of freedom, because if he is found guilty of fraud, he will probably not see the outside again
@Nick: At least he didn’t practice, but I agree–he’s in deep trouble.
There should be a statute of limitations on this.
After, say, 10 years of flawless deception, he should be allowed to practice Cardiology.