A 29-year-old Florida woman who posed as a licensed nurse and treated more than 4,400 patients has avoided jail time, receiving probation instead in a case authorities described as deeply concerning.
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, Autumn Bardisa entered a no-contest plea to charges including unlicensed practice of healthcare and fraudulent use of identification. Dawn Nichols sentenced her to five years of probation and 50 hours of community service while withholding adjudication.
Investigators said Bardisa worked at AdventHealth between June 2024 and January 2025, falsely presenting herself as a licensed nurse. She reportedly used another nurse’s license number—belonging to someone with the same first name—to secure and maintain her position.
Authorities revealed that Bardisa initially applied under a designation meant for graduates awaiting licensure, later claiming she had passed her exam. She allegedly fabricated details, including a name change, to explain discrepancies in her credentials.
The situation came to light when a coworker independently verified her license and found it invalid. Further investigation showed she only held an expired certified nursing assistant credential.
Sheriff Rick Staly said the case raised serious concerns about patient safety and trust in healthcare systems. As part of her plea agreement, Bardisa is barred from working in the medical field during her probation and must issue an apology to the nurse whose identity she used.
Officials are urging anyone who may have been treated by her to come forward.
