Doctors and Nurse Practitioner Arrested in Prescription Drug Abuse Raid

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

A crackdown on prescription drug abuse by New York law enforcement has resulted in the arrests of 98 people. Two doctors and a nurse practitioner were among those charged.

A series of raids were carried out by Brooklyn federal prosecutors, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), district attorney’s offices, and local law enforcement agencies. The raids began June 5, 2012 and resulted in the arrests.

To view the DEA’s press release concerning the raid, click here.

Both Doctors Accused of Overprescribing.

One of the doctors is accused of conspiring to distribute oxycodone to patients that were not legitimate. Allegedly, the doctor surrendered his DEA registration. This terminated his authority to prescribe controlled substances such as oxycodone. However, he allegedly attempted to use other health care practitioners to continue to prescribe drugs, which the government contends is illegal.

Another doctor involved in the crackdown is charged with illegal distribution of oxycodone. During the execution of a federal search warrant at his offices on March 1, 2012, the doctor voluntarily surrendered his DEA registration. However, he allegedly continued to issue prescriptions to those whom he knew were not legitimate patients.

We continually warn against “voluntarily relinquishing” DEA registrations or medical licenses with any investigation pending as this is treated the same as a revocation in most cases. For an article we have written on this, click here.

Florida Has Experienced Similar Prescription Drug Abuse Crackdowns.

Starting around two years ago, Florida health providers involved in narcotics precribing became routine targets for law enforcement. This was part of a concerted effort by state and federal officials to crackdown on “pill mill” operations. Regulations increased. Lawmakers enacted severe penalties for doctors and other health professionals accused of over-prescribing. Most physicians were banned from dispensing drugs in their offices. The governor created a Florida drug “strike force” with a mission to eliminate any pain clinics that were found to be breaking the law. The Florida Surgeon General and the Board of Medicine made announcements about the “crackdown” on “over-prescribing.”

Since the implementation of the new pain management and prescribing laws, the Florida strike force has made thousands of arrests and seized millions of pills of narcotics. This has resulted in serious concerns by those in the pain management profession.

Law Enforcement will Continue to Pursue Physicians, Pharmacists, Nurses and Other Health Providers.

The recent raid in New York and ongoing actions in Florida demonstrate that law enforcement will continue to pursue health professionals who prescribe large amounts of narcotics.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Overprescribing Charges and DEA Cases.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists, pharmacies, physicians, nurses and other health providers in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits involving the DEA, Department of Health (DOH) and other law enforcement agencies. Its attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources Include:

Allen, Jonathon. “Doctors Arrested in New York Prescription Drug Crackdown.” Reuters. (June 7, 2012). From http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/06/06/usa-crime-painkillers-idINL1E8H6E3J20120606

CBS News. “98 Arrested in NY Prescription Drug Sweep.” CBS News. (June 6, 2012). From http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57448268/dozens-arrested-in-ny-prescription-drug-bust/

McKenzie-Mulvey, Erin. “U.S. Attorney Lynch, District Attorneys, DEA, Other Law Enforcement Announce Prescription Drug Initiative.” Drug Enforcement Administration. (June 7, 2012). Press Release. From: http://www.justice.gov/dea/pubs/states/newsrel/2012/nyc060712a.html

About the Author:  George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:31-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: DEA, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Doctors and Nurse Practitioner Arrested in Prescription Drug Abuse Raid
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Doctor Sentenced to Almost 27 Years in Prison for Pill Mill Charges

4 Indest-2009-3By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

A doctor was sentenced to almost 27 years in prison on July 24, 2013, according to the Sun Sentinel. The former doctor, Sergio Rodriguez, had worked as a pediatrician at Children Plus Health Center near Palm Beach County, Florida. He was charged with operating a pill mill out of his office. He pleaded guilty to four counts of manslaughter, four counts of conspiracy to traffic oxycodone, one count of racketeering and one count of money laundering.

Click here to read the entire Sun Sentinel article.

Doctor Prescribed Pain Pills to Undercover Detectives.

Dr. Rodriguez is accused of illegally prescribing pain killers out of his office. He was initially arrested in 2008. Investigators claim the doctor did not have the proper training to prescribe the pain medications, but did so anyway. According to the Sun Sentinel, the doctor would prescribe oxycodone, methadone and xanax to patients, including undercover detectives, without an examination.

A Palm Beach, Florida, judge approved a plea agreement for Dr. Rodriguez. Under the agreement, the doctor reportedly admitted responsibility for the deaths of four people in early 2008. According to court documents, Dr. Rodriguez relinquished his license to practice medicine in the state of Florida in 2009.

Click here to read the administrative complaint against Dr. Rodriguez.

Civil Forfeiture of Property and Money: A New Weapon in the Government’s Arsenal Against Health Fraud and Pill Mills.

Dr. Rodriguez was also ordered to pay $200,000 in fines, and court costs. He will also be responsible for forfeiting $87,000, according to the Sun Sentinel.

Recently we have seen government prosecutors and agencies, including the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU), the U.S. Attorney General’s (AG) Office, and local sheriff and police departments use the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act against health professionals and health facilities in health-related cases. A prompt, aggressive defense to these actions may often recover the property or funds seized and, more importantly, a good defense can be used to help resolve any pending criminal charges. To read more on the forfeiture of property and money, click here to read a previous blog.

Legal Tips for Physicians to Manage Pain Patients.

Doctors, pharmacists and all healthcare professionals who are involved in schemes relating to overprescribing or trafficking in narcotics may be targeted by many different agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The DEA will often use undercover agents and informants to pose as patients, wired for audio recording. The DEA will often work with local law enforcement authorities and the Department of Health (DOH). Other investigations and arrests may be initiated by a statewide prosecutor’s office, which is under the AG. Still others have been initiated by the MFCU where Medicaid funds are used.

To avoid any legal actions altogether, we advise our physician clients to follow a simple list of suggestions in order to protect themselves from drug-seeking patients. Click here to see an article on our website with tips on how to help manage pain patients.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Investigations of Health Professionals and Providers.

The attorneys of The Health Law Firm provide legal representation to physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, CRNAs, pain management doctors, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists and other health providers in Department of Health (DOH) investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigations, FBI investigations, Medicare investigations, Medicaid investigations and other types of investigations of health professionals and providers.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

What do you think of Dr. Rodriguez’s sentence? As a health care professional, how do you manage pain patients? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Sources:

Freeman, Marc. “Former Doctor Sentenced to 27 Years for Overdose Deaths.” Sun Sentinel. (July 25, 2013). From: http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2013-07-25/news/fl-doctor-overdose-deaths-plea-deal-20130725_1_sergio-rodriguez-former-doctor-children-plus-health-center

Muczyner, Michael. “Lake Worth Pediatrician Sentenced to Prison for Pill Mill Charges.” CBS 12 News. (July 25, 2013). From: http://cbs12.com/news/top-stories/stories/vid_9076.shtml

Department of Health v. Sergio Rodriguez, M.D. Case Number 2008-20504. Final Order. January 7, 2011. From: http://ww2.doh.state.fl.us/DocServiceMngr/displayDocument.aspx

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.
Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:51-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: Board of Medicine, Civil Forfeiture, Pain Management, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |1 Comment
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Recent Pill Mill Bust in Florida Dubbed “Operation Pill Street Blues”

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

A statewide pill mill bust that spanned several Florida cities was announced by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Florida law enforcement on June 27, 2012. Seven doctors and seven pain clinic owners were arrested. The raid has been dubbed “Operation Pill Street Blues” by the DEA.

To view the DEA’s press release concerning the raid, click here.

Manslaughter and Trafficking Among Charges Against the Doctors and Pain Clinic Owners.

The doctors and pain clinic owners are facing a long list of charges. Some of the alleged offenses include: racketeering; conspiracy to commit racketeering; manslaughter; trafficking in a controlled substance; conspiracy to traffic in a controlled substance; delivery of a controlled substance; illegally prescribing a controlled substance by a practitioner; illegally prescribing a controlled substance (oxycodone hydrochloride) by a practitioner-trafficking amount; workers compensation fraud; and money laundering.

Investigation Unveiled Ring of Pill Mills Spanning Across Florida.

The arrests follow a two year investigation led by the DEA in conjunction with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, Vero Beach Police Department, and the Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution. The investigation began in Vero Beach in November 2010 after the DEA received complaints about a pain clinic that was allegedly writing a large amount of narcotics prescriptions.

During the investigation, DEA agents uncovered eight more pain clinics in Miami, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Gainesville and Pensacola that were allegedly involved in the same operation. DEA agents also learned that some of the pain clinics were allegedly owned by two active Pompano Beach firemen.

Pain Clinic Owners Allegedly Studied Other DEA Pill Mill Busts to Avoid Detection.

According to the DEA, the pain clinic owners allegedly researched public records relating to past DEA investigations such as Operation Pill Nation and Operation Oxy Alley. One of the pain clinic owners also allegedly educated others at the clinics on how to successfully report their competition to law enforcement.

Wire Intercepts, Informants, and Undercover Agents Used in Pain Clinic Investigations.

The investigation into the pain clinics involved the use of judicial wire intercepts, informants, and under cover visits to the pain clinics. Undercover agents allegedly visited each of the seven doctors charged. The agents were allegedly prescribed approximately 2,732 oxycodone tablets.

Law Enforcement Raids on Physicians, Pharmacists, Nurses and Other Health Providers Will Continue.

According to the DEA, Operation Pill Street Blues is an ongoing investigation. Additional arrests of co-conspirators, including other doctors and health providers, are forthcoming, according to the DEA. If you are a physician, pharmacist, nurse, or other health provider, ensure you are taking measures to protect yourself and your practice.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with DEA Cases.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists, pharmacies, physicians, nurses and other health providers in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits involving the DEA, Department of Health (DOH), and other law enforcement agencies.

If you are aware of an investigation of you or your practice, or if you have been contacted by the DEA or DOH, contact an experienced health law attorney immediately.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources Include:

Ro, Mia. “Federal Investigation Takes Down New Breed of Pill Mills in Florida.” Drug Enforcement Administration. (June 27, 2012). Press Release. From: http://www.justice.gov/dea/pubs/states/newsrel/2012/mia062712.html

Roberts, John. “DEA, Florida Police Arrest 14 in Pill Mill Bust.” Fox News. (June 6, 2012). From http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/06/27/statewide-pill-mill-bust-involves-florida-municipal-workers/#ixzz1zBvQuGgC

About the Author:  George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:32-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: DEA, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |1 Comment
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Two Central Florida Physicians Connected to Statewide Pill-Mill Network

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

An Orlando and Jacksonville physician have been linked to a statewide pill-mill operation that brought in millions of dollars to pain clinic owners and doctors, according to the Orlando Sentinel. On June 27, 2012 seven doctors and seven pain clinic owners were arrested in the raid that was dubbed “Operation Pill Street Blues.” The two-year, multiagency investigation into the pill-mill operation spanned from Miami to Pensacola. The investigation included the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Florida law enforcement.

To view the DEA’s press release concerning the investigation, click here.

South Florida Firefighter Alleged Leader of Pill Mill.

Investigators named a 32-year-old Pompano Beach firefighter as the pill-mill’s ring leader. He allegedly used his image as a city firefighter and paramedic to develop a clean reputation with the local law enforcement.

He allegedly told his co-conspirators how to turn in other rogue doctors, pain clinics, and patients who abused drugs to authorities, so that their business would appear legitimate.

Millions of Oxycodone Pills were Prescribed in One Year.

Doctors recruited by the pill-mill network would allegedly write prescriptions to patients who did not have a medical need for the drugs or would prescribe excessive amounts of pills.

The seven doctors in the organization allegedly dispensed more than two million oxycodone tablets in one year. The Orlando and Jacksonville doctors allegedly prescribed more than 930,000 oxycodone pills between the two of them in a nine-month period.

Both Local Doctors Examined Undercover Detectives Posing as Patients During the Investigation.

Both doctors were visited by undercover detectives posing as patients. The Jacksonville doctor examined a detective who complained of minor back pain. She allegedly issued prescriptions for oxycodone and other drugs, even though the detective had no observable medical issues.

The affidavit details other undercover doctor visits, including those with the Orlando doctor at a pain management clinic in Fort Meyers. The initial exam between the doctor and the undercover detective allegedly lasted less than three minutes, before he gave the detective a prescription for oxycodone and other drugs.

Charges Vary from Racketeering to Manslaughter.

Those arrested for alleged involvement in the pill-mill scheme face charges ranging from racketeering, to trafficking of a controlled substance, to manslaughter.

On June 26, 2012, the day before authorities announced the charges, the Department of Health suspended the doctors’ licenses.

Pain management doctors click here to see if you’re in compliance with the recent changes to Florida’s pain management laws.

Patients with Severe Pain Speaking Out.

A former patient of a Vero Beach doctor arrested in the sting is one of hundreds who were prescribed strong narcotic pain medications at the alleged pill mills. Now she’s having a hard time finding the medications she needs to treat her conditions, including: a herniated disk, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. All of her conditions are listed in medical records and cause her severe pain. She is trying to find another doctor that is willing to prescribe her the medications she needs to function.

This situation is familiar to many patients in Florida with true medical need for prescription pain medications. These patients are finding it increasingly difficult to even locate a physician to treat them. Medical ethicists have commented on this problem, saying it is an issue that will become increasingly problematic for the foreseeable future.

To read more on operation “Pill Street Blue,” click here.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with DEA Cases.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists, pharmacies, physicians, nurses, and other health providers in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits involving the DEA, Department of Health (DOH), and other law enforcement agencies.

If you are aware of an investigation of you or your practice, or if you have been contacted by the DEA or DOH, contact an experienced health law attorney immediately.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources Include:

Pavuk, Amy. “Authorities Link Orlando doctor, Daytona Clinic to Pill-Mill Network.” Orlando Sentinel. (July 14, 2012). From: http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2012-07-14/news/os-fernando-valle-pill-mill-network-20120714_1_pain-clinics-pill-mill-network-clinic-owners

Gordon, Lynn. “Former Patient of Vero Beach Doctor Arrested in Pill Mill Bust Talks.”WPEC-TV. (July 17, 2012). From: http://www.cbs12.com/news/top-stories/stories/vid_1092.shtml

About the Author:  George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:33-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: DEA, Department of Health, In the Know, In the News, Pain Management, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Two Central Florida Physicians Connected to Statewide Pill-Mill Network
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More than 30 People Charged with Pharmaceutical Drug Trafficking in Central Florida

By Dr. Thu Pham, O.D., Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm

Attorney General Pam Bondi along with special agent Mark R. Trouville of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Longwood Police Chief Troy Hickson announced, on June 20, 2012, the execution of 37 arrest warrants stemming from state drug charges.  The defendants all reside in Central Florida.

Click here to read the entire press release from the Florida Attorney General.

Charges are Being Handed Down to the Defendants.

The charges for the defendants ranged from first degree to third degree felonies.  The defendants have been charged with acts such as conspiracy to traffic Oxycodone, solicitation to deliver Oxycodone, and possession of Hydromorphone with intent to sell or deliver. 

Law enforcement authorities have been able to apprehend 33 of the 37 charged.

Click here to see our experience representing pharmacists and pharmacies.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Representing Pharmacists and Pharmacies.

The attorneys of The Health Law Firm provide legal representation to pharmacists and pharmacies in Department of Health (DOH) investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigations, FBI investigations and other types of investigations of health professionals and providers.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources:

myfloridalegal.com. “DEA: 37 Charged in Longwood Local Impact Drug Trafficking Conspiracy.” AG. (June 20, 2012).  From Press Release:

http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/9E8D06F29BCB233B85257A230072572A.

Justice.gov. “Law Enforcement Dethrones “Queen” of Longwood, Florida.” DEA, Domestic Field Division. (June 20, 2012).  From Press Release:

http://www.justice.gov/dea/pubs/states/newsrel/2012/mia062012.html

About the Author: Dr. Thu Pham, O.D., is a law clerk with The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice. Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone: (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:35-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: DEA, In the News, Pharmaceutical Drugs, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |1 Comment
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More Than 20 Arrest Warrants Issued by Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Connection to Pill Mill Investigation

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office issued 25 arrest warrants in connection to an ongoing pill mill investigation involving a medical clinic in Winter Haven, Florida. On September 19, 2012, the sheriff’s office announced that ten suspects in the case have been arrested, and 15 suspects with arrest warrants remain at large.

Click here to see the press release from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities Used the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program to find Suspects.

Last year the state launched the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, which requires doctors and pharmacists who dispense controlled substances to report the information to a statewide database.

According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the database was used to round up those associated with the Winter Haven medical clinic.

In an article in the News Chief, deputies said 13 of the suspects were allegedly acting as “smurfs” (people hired by a drug ring to take fake prescriptions to be filled, then turning the pills over to the ring). Another 12 people were accused of “doctor shopping,” which is the practice of going to multiple doctors to get many prescriptions for narcotics.

To read the entire article from the News Chief, click here.

This case was investigated by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLF), the Florida Department of Health (DOH) and the Attorney General’s (AG) Office.

“These people are giving the smurfs a bad name,” Papa Smurf stated. “We should be happy that law enforcement is doing a good job rounding up the read ‘bad guys,’”added Brainy Smurf.
Legal Tips for Physicians to Manage Pain Patients.

Doctors, pharmacists and all healthcare professionals who are involved in schemes relating to overprescribing or trafficking in narcotics may be targeted by many different agencies.

We have represented physicians who have been the subjects of Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigations. The DEA will often use undercover agents and informants to pose as patients, wired for audio recording. The DEA will often work with local law enforcement authorities and the Department of Health (DOH).

Other investigations and arrests may be initiated by a statewide prosecutor’s office, which is under the Attorney General (AG). Still others have been initiated by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) where Medicaid funds are used.

Click here to see an article on our website with tips for to help manage pain patients.

Give us your thoughts on this story below.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Health Care Providers in DOH Cases.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists, pharmacies, physicians, nurses, and other health care providers in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits involving the DEA, Department of Health (DOH), and other law enforcement agencies.

If you are aware of an investigation of you or your practice, or if you have been contacted by the DEA or DOH, contact an experienced health law attorney immediately.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.
Sources:

Parody, Clifford. “25 Warrants Issued in Ongoing Pill Mill Case.” News Chief. (September 20, 2012). From: http://www.newschief.com/article/20120920/NEWS/209205012

Pavuk, Amy. “25 Arrest Warrants Issued in Pill-Mill Probe.” Orlando Sentinel. (September 19, 2012). From: http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2012-09-19/news/os-polk-pill-mill-arrests-20120919_1_pill-mill-probe-arrest-warrants-fraudulent-prescriptions

Eleazer, Carrie. “25 Arrest Warrants Issued in Connection to On-Going Pill Mill Investigation.” Polk County Sheriff’s Office. (September 19, 2012). From: http://www.polksheriff.org/NewsRoom/News%20Releases/Pages/09-19-2012.aspx
About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.
By |2024-03-14T10:00:36-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: Department of Health, In the Know, In the News, Pain Management, Pharmaceutical Drugs, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , |3 Comments
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Orlando Pharmacist in Hot Water After Filling Fraudulent Prescriptions

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

Another pharmacist was led away in
handcuffs during a September 25, 2012, raid on an Orlando-area pharmacy, according to a number of sources. The pharmacist is accused of filling prescriptions for oxycodone, even though he allegedly knew the prescriptions were not legitimate.

Click here to see video of the arrest from WFTV in Orlando.

 Ongoing Investigation Led to Pharmacy Raid.

In December 2011, narcotics agents searched the same pharmacy and found 22 prescriptions that were suspected to be fraudulent, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Agents believed the prescriptions were fakes because they apparently matched phony prescriptions found at other local pharmacies. The prescriptions had the same patient names, and the telephone number listed on the prescription belonged to a suspected drug abuser, not a physician.

One customer who received pills from the pharmacist told the Orlando Sentinel that because she was using fake prescriptions, the pharmacist would mark up the price of the pills.

Pharmacists Beware of Phony Prescription Rings Around the State.

We have previously published several blogs about groups of criminals who have operated phony prescription rings in Central Florida. In a number of cases they have obtained professional counterfeit-proof paper and had prescription forms printed that are indistinguishable from the real thing.

Click here to see blog one. Click here to see smurf blog.

Given that there are mandatory minimum prison sentences for such activities, young people (those who are usually involved) should avoid these people like the plague. It is just not worth the risk for a few hundred dollars or a few pills. You screw up your life forever, and you spend years in prison.

How to Handle Legal Issues.

The pharmacist in this casewas arrested on 22 counts of trafficking in oxycodone, 22 counts of conspiracy to traffic in oxycodone, and one count of trafficking in hydrocodone. On top of those charges, the Department of Health (DOH) ordered an emergency suspension order on the pharmacist’s license.

To read the article from the Orlando Sentinel, click here.

To see our blog on possible remedies for an emergency suspension order, click here.

Spike in Pharmacy Raids and Shutdowns in the Sunshine State.

If you’ve been watching the news at all lately, you can tell there have been an increased number of raids on pharmacies, arrests of pharmacists and emergency suspension orders issued from the Department of Health (DOH).

Just in the past month the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) served a Walgreens distribution center in Florida with an immediate suspension order (click here to read more on this story), and pulled the controlled substance licenses from two Central Florida CVS Pharmacies (to learn more, click here).

In my personal opinion, if the large retail giants can’t survive, the small independent pharmacies stand little chance.

Do you agree? What do you think of the war on prescription drugs in Florida? Leave your comments on this story below.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced in Representing Pharmacies and Pharmacists.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists and pharmacies in DEA investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, administrative hearings, inspections and audits. The firm’s attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources:

Pavuk, Amy. “Agents Raid Orlando-Area Pharmacy, Arrest Pharmacist.” Orlando Sentinel. (September 25, 2012). From: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/os-pharmacist-arrested-orlando-20120925,0,6879000.story

WFTV. “Pharmacist Arrested on Charges of Trafficking Oxycodone.” WFTV.com. (September 25, 2012). From: ttp://www.wftv.com/news/news/local/pharmacist-arrested-charges-trafficking-oxycodone/nSLgg/

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.
Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:37-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the Know, Licensing issues, Pharmaceutical Drugs, Pharmacy, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Orlando Pharmacist in Hot Water After Filling Fraudulent Prescriptions
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Osceola County Commissioners Vote to Regulate Pain Management Clinics

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

On October 8, 2012, the Osceola County, Florida, Commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance that will regulate pain management clinics, according to the Orlando Sentinel. The ordinance will take effect on October 31, 2012, and will be in effect for 10 years.

Click here to see the ordinance passed at the Osceola County Commissioner’s meeting.

This is part of the continuing efforts by law enforcement to cut down on prescription drug abuse that plagues the state.

Ordinance Details.

The ordinance spells out what constitutes a pain management clinic, prohibits cash-only payments and requires pain management clinics to provide the names of employees to the county.

The ordinance also requires that clinics participate in the Department of Health’s (DOH) Prescription Drug Monitoring Program. That means pain management doctors will have to track and provide monthly reports on how many prescriptions are issued for controlled substances, and provide certain patient data, such as age ranges, race and gender.

Anyone caught violating these rules will be punished with the loss of their business tax receipt.

Any hospital or physician engaged in short-term treatment of pain (90 days or less) is exempt from the ordinance.

Seminole County Might Be Next.

Seminole County, Florida, Commissioners were set to vote on a similar ordinance at their meeting on October 9, 2012, but heard arguments from doctors. The ordinance will now be considered next month, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

Click here to read the entire article from the Orlando Sentinel.

Don’t Risk Your License. Read These Tips for Pain Management Doctors to Stay Inside the Law.

On top of following the new ordinance, Osceola County doctors and any doctor working in pain management, should read this article on tips to protect themselves from drug-seeking patients.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Investigations of Health Professionals and Providers.

The attorneys of The Health Law Firm provide legal representation to physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, CRNAs, pain management doctors, dentists, pharmacists, psychologists and other health providers in Department of Health (DOH) investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigations, FBI investigations, Medicare investigations, Medicaid investigations and other types of investigations of health professionals and providers.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Comments?

As a healthcare professional, what do you think of this ordinance? Please leave any thoughtful comments below.

Source:

Breen, David. “Osceola Ordinance Targets Pill Mills.” Orlando Sentinel. (October 9, 2012). From: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/os-osceola-pain-clinic-ordinance-20121009,0,2467210.story

About the Author: George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:00:38-04:00June 1, 2018|Categories: In the Know, In the News, Pain Management, The Health Law Firm Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Osceola County Commissioners Vote to Regulate Pain Management Clinics
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Nurse Practitioner Arrested in New York Crackdown on Prescription Drug Abuse

By George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law

A New York law enforcement crackdown on prescription drug abuse has resulted in the arrests of 98 people. Among those charged are a nurse practitioner and two doctors.

Brooklyn federal prosecutors joined with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), district attorney’s offices, and local law enforcement agencies, to carry out a series of raids that began June 5, 2012 and resulted in the arrests.

To view the DEA’s press release concerning the raid, click here.

Doctors Accused of Overprescribing.

One of the doctors is accused of conspiring to distribute oxycodone to patients that were not legitimate. Allegedly, the doctor surrendered his DEA registration. This terminated his authority to prescribe controlled substances such as oxycodone. However, he allegedly attempted to use other health care practitioners to continue to prescribe drugs, which the government contends is illegal.

Another doctor involved in the crackdown is charged with illegal distribution of oxycodone. During the execution of a federal search warrant at his offices on March 1, 2012, the doctor voluntarily surrendered his DEA registration. However, he allegedly continued to issue prescriptions to those whom he knew were not legitimate patients.

We continually warn against “voluntarily relinquishing” DEA registrations or medical licenses with any investigation pending as this is treated the same as a revocation in most cases. For an article we have written on this, click here.

Florida Has Experienced Similar Prescription Drug Abuse Crackdowns.

Beginning about two years ago, Florida health providers involved in narcotics precribing became routine targets for law enforcement. This was part of a concerted effort by state and federal officials to crackdown on “pill mill” operations. Regulations increased. Lawmakers enacted severe penalties for doctors and other health professionals accused of over-prescribing. Most physicians were banned from dispensing drugs in their offices. The governor created a Florida drug “strike force” with a mission to eliminate any pain clinics that were found to be breaking the law. The Florida Surgeon General and the Board of Medicine made announcements about the “crackdown” on “over-prescribing.”

Since the implementation of the new pain management and prescribing laws, the Florida strike force has made thousands of arrests and seized millions of pills of narcotics. This has resulted in serious concerns by those in the pain management profession.

Law Enforcement will Continue to Pursue Physicians, Pharmacists, Nurses and Other Health Providers.

The recent raid in New York and ongoing actions in Florida demonstrate that law enforcement will continue to pursue health professionals who prescribe large amounts of narcotics.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Overprescribing Charges and DEA Cases.

The Health Law Firm represents pharmacists, pharmacies, physicians, nurses and other health providers in investigations, regulatory matters, licensing issues, litigation, inspections and audits involving the DEA, Department of Health (DOH) and other law enforcement agencies. Its attorneys include those who are board certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law as well as licensed health professionals who are also attorneys.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources Include:

Allen, Jonathon. “Doctors Arrested in New York Prescription Drug Crackdown.” Reuters. (June 7, 2012). From
http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/06/06/usa-crime-painkillers-idINL1E8H6E3J20120606

CBS News. “98 Arrested in NY Prescription Drug Sweep.” CBS News. (June 6, 2012). From
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-201_162-57448268/dozens-arrested-in-ny-prescription-drug-bust/

McKenzie-Mulvey, Erin. “U.S. Attorney Lynch, District Attorneys, DEA, Other Law Enforcement Announce Prescription Drug Initiative.” Drug Enforcement Administration. (June 7, 2012). Press Release. From:
http://www.justice.gov/dea/pubs/states/newsrel/2012/nyc060712a.html

About the Author:  George F. Indest III, J.D., M.P.A., LL.M., is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Health Law.  He is the President and Managing Partner of The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice.  Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone:  (407) 331-6620.

By |2024-03-14T10:01:55-04:00May 15, 2018|Categories: Nursing Law Blog|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on Nurse Practitioner Arrested in New York Crackdown on Prescription Drug Abuse
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37 Central Floridians Charged with Illicit Pharmaceutical Drug Trafficking

By Dr. Thu Pham, O.D., Law Clerk, The Health Law Firm

Attorney General Pam Bondi along with special agent Mark R. Trouville of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Longwood Police Chief Troy Hickson announced, on June 20, 2012, the execution of 37 arrest warrants stemming from state drug charges.  The defendants all reside in Central Florida.

Click here to read the entire press release from the Florida Attorney General.

The Defendants’ Charged with Felonies.

The charges for the defendants ranged from first degree to third degree felonies.  The defendants have been charged with acts, such as conspiracy to traffic Oxycodone, solicitation to deliver Oxycodone, and possession of Hydromorphone with intent to sell or deliver. 

Law enforcement authorities have been able to apprehend 33 of the 37 charged.

Click here to see our experience representing pharmacists and pharmacies.

Contact Health Law Attorneys Experienced with Representing Pharmacists and Pharmacies.

The attorneys of The Health Law Firm provide legal representation to pharmacists and pharmacies in Department of Health (DOH) investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigations, FBI investigations and other types of investigations of health professionals and providers.

To contact The Health Law Firm, please call (407) 331-6620 or (850) 439-1001 and visit our website at www.TheHealthLawFirm.com.

Sources:

myfloridalegal.com. “DEA: 37 Charged in Longwood Local Impact Drug Trafficking Conspiracy.” AG. (June 20, 2012).  From Press Release: http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/9E8D06F29BCB233B85257A230072572A.

Justice.gov. “Law Enforcement Dethrones “Queen” of Longwood, Florida.” DEA, Domestic Field Division. (June 20, 2012).  From Press Release: http://www.justice.gov/dea/pubs/states/newsrel/2012/mia062012.html

About the Author: Dr. Thu Pham, O.D., is a law clerk with The Health Law Firm, which has a national practice. Its main office is in the Orlando, Florida, area.  www.TheHealthLawFirm.com  The Health Law Firm, 1101 Douglas Ave., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714, Phone: (407) 331-6620.

“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A. – The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.

Copyright © 1996-2012 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.

By |2024-03-14T10:01:05-04:00May 15, 2018|Categories: Legal Defense for Pharmacists, Pharmacist, Pharmacy, Pharmacy Law|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |Comments Off on 37 Central Floridians Charged with Illicit Pharmaceutical Drug Trafficking
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“The Health Law Firm” is a registered fictitious business name of George F. Indest III, P.A.
The Health Law Firm, a Florida professional service corporation, since 1999.
Copyright © 2022 The Health Law Firm. All rights reserved.
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