Last Updated on: 11th March 2023, 06:19 pm

The Opioid and Prescription Drug Fraud Crisis: Federal Law Enforcement Agencies Cracking Down on Pill Mills

The United States is facing an opioid and prescription drug fraud crisis that is rapidly spiraling out of control. The rise of this epidemic has pushed federal law enforcement agencies to take aggressive action against those involved in the sale and distribution of prescription drugs. The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are leaving no stone unturned as they aggressively investigate “pill mill” cases against doctors, pharmacists, and other medical professionals who are providing treatment to patients and prescribing prescription drugs.

The Term “Pill Mill” and its Implications

The term “pill mill” is commonly used by federal investigators to describe a situation where a medical professional distributes prescription drugs outside their normal practice or without a legitimate medical need. It is a practice that has been on the rise and has resulted in the loss of countless lives across the country. The implications of these actions are far-reaching and the consequences can be catastrophic.

Prescription Drug Fraud and Pill Mills: Understanding the Charges

The federal government has strict laws in place to combat prescription drug fraud and pill mills. 21 U.S.C. 841 makes it a felony crime to knowingly and intentionally distribute a controlled substance other than in the usual course of practice and for a legitimate medical purpose. Closely related, 21 U.S.C. 846 makes it a crime to attempt or conspire with others in order to violate this federal statute. These charges can carry serious consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and a criminal record that can follow an individual for the rest of their life.

Federal Court Involvement

While many prescription drug fraud cases are filed against individuals in a state-level court, there are situations where people or a group of individuals will be criminally charged in federal court for their alleged involvement in a pill mill operation. This highlights the seriousness of the issue and the extent to which federal law enforcement agencies are willing to go to combat the opioid epidemic.

The Battle Against the Opioid Epidemic

There are countless numbers of people who suffer from chronic pain and require regular treatment. However, many are not eligible for certain procedures or surgery and will seek ways to reduce their pain. Some physicians will unlawfully prescribe prescription drugs to help them control the pain. The prescribing of narcotics has come under close scrutiny as part of the fight against the opioid epidemic. Federal law enforcement agencies are actively investigating numerous physicians who regularly prescribe drugs listed under the Controlled Substances Act, such as OxyContin, Perocet, Percodan, Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Morphine, Fentanyl, and others.

Conclusion

In conclusion, prescription drug fraud and pill mills are serious offenses that have far-reaching consequences. The federal government has put strict laws in place to combat this epidemic, and law enforcement agencies are actively cracking down on those who are involved in the sale and distribution of prescription drugs. It is important for individuals to understand the gravity of these charges and seek the assistance of experienced federal criminal defense lawyers to ensure that their rights are protected.

Federal Criminal Investigations of a “Pill Mill”

Medical professionals who are accused of distributing pain medication without a legitimate medical purpose or outside the normal course of their practice can be charged with federal drug crimes. This practice is referred to as a “Pill Mill,” and federal prosecutors have established special task forces to investigate and prosecute these cases.

Identifying a Pill Mill

To identify a Pill Mill, federal investigators search for red flags, such as patients who do not live nearby and visit the clinic regularly to obtain controlled substance prescriptions. Additionally, Pill Mills typically charge higher fees and only accept cash payments. While cash payments for medical treatments are not illegal, these factors combined often indicate an illegal operation.

Physicians who prescribe Schedule II and Schedule III medications are under scrutiny from the Drug Enforcement Administration, and federal law enforcement agencies may begin a criminal investigation if they believe a doctor is operating a Pill Mill. They will closely examine the doctor’s prescription records and investigate how they prescribe pain medication. In some cases, they may even track down patients for further information.

Undercover Operations and Arrests

Federal agents and local police may conduct undercover sting operations, posing as patients with chronic pain and attempting to get a prescription for pain medication. These investigations can take several months to complete and often result in a raid of the medical clinic, leading to arrests of the doctors and support staff present. The clinic’s bank accounts are often frozen and seized.

Overdose Deaths and Forfeiture of Property and Money

When patients abuse prescription medication and die from an overdose, the government may hold the doctor responsible. The penalties for prescribing pain medication without a legitimate medical purpose and leading to a patient’s overdose are severe, carrying a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

In most Pill Mill cases, federal prosecutors will also attempt to seize any bank accounts, property, or assets connected to the illegal activity, even if the accused party is found not guilty. Federal criminal attorneys can challenge these claims of seizure and work to defend forfeiture and seizure in a federal court. With their expertise, it may be possible to retrieve the defendant’s property and money.

By cracking down on Pill Mills and holding medical professionals accountable, federal agencies aim to prevent the misuse and abuse of prescription medication, which can often lead to overdose and even death.

Fighting Federal Prescription Drug Fraud Charges: How Our Attorneys Can Help

If you’ve been charged with federal prescription drug fraud under 21 U.S.C. 841 or 21 U.S.C. 846, you’re facing serious legal consequences. But you don’t have to face them alone. Our experienced and dedicated federal criminal defense attorneys will work tirelessly to help you obtain the best possible outcome for your case.

Experienced Representation for Healthcare Professionals

Our team of defense lawyers represents healthcare professionals across the United States, and we have the expertise to craft a compelling legal strategy on your behalf. We understand that every case is unique, and we’ll carefully examine all the details and legal options available to you.

Proving Your Innocence with Medical Experts

We know that in many cases, prescribing pain medication is lawful and for a legitimate purpose. That’s why we may be able to use medical experts to prove your innocence and demonstrate that your actions were entirely within the bounds of the law.

Protecting Your Rights in Court

We’ll also review any witnesses presented by the federal prosecutor to ensure that they’re credible and that they’re not trying to conceal their own illegal activity. If necessary, we’ll make a strong argument that there was a lack of criminal intent, or that the evidence against you is insufficient to obtain a conviction.

Skilled Negotiation for Reduced or Dismissed Charges

Our attorneys are skilled negotiators, and we may be able to persuade the prosecutor to reduce or even dismiss the charges against you. We’ll fight tirelessly to protect your rights and your future, no matter what legal challenges you’re facing.

Contact Us Today for Guidance

If you’re under criminal investigation or have already been indicted for an alleged violation of 21 U.S.C. 841 or 18 U.S.C. 1347, prescription drug fraud, don’t wait to get the legal guidance you need. Call our experienced federal criminal attorneys today to discuss your case and learn more about how we can help you fight these charges.