Prescription Drug Crimes

In Pitt County alone, 10.6 billion opioid pills were prescribed in 2016.  Studies show around 50 percent of Americans, approximately 119 million people are on prescription drugs. According to a federal survey, about 16 percent of prescribed drugs are abused and misused. The prescription drug problem in America is growing every year, and has now been classified as an epidemic by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Because of this massive volume of prescription drugs in our country, the possibility of related crimes has never been higher. Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health shows  that nearly 1 out of 3 people who used drugs for the first time began by using prescription drugs for non-medical reasons. Not only is the risky path of prescription drugs potentially harmful, but there are also several laws and regulations regarding the use of prescription drugs themselves. Examples of prescription drug crimes are unlawfully prescribing medications, doctor shopping, pharmacy theft and forging prescriptions. Sharing and/or selling drugs that you are prescribed, is also against the law.

The violation of unlawfully prescribing medications applies to doctors and other healthcare professionals. This type of crime deals with the prescribing of drugs for non-medical purposes. This can lead to loss of job, jail time and major fines.

Because doctors and pharmacists have complete access to an unlimited supply of prescription drugs, there are instances when they start selling them illegally, which is known as Doctor Selling. This happens when healthcare professionals steal or illegally obtain these drugs and sell them on the side to make a profit. The penalties for this offense are very serious, and can include incarceration, heavy fines and probation. Offenders also have a very hard time finding another job in their field of work after a conviction.

Annually, hundreds of pharmacy robberies take place with the sole purpose of obtaining prescription drugs. Pharmacy Theft can be performed by doctors, pharmacists or customers. The penalties are also very severe and can be met with extensive fines and incarceration.

Another major violation is forging prescriptions. Stealing prescription pads, calling in false prescriptions and falsifying medial information are all examples of forging prescriptions. Falsifying medical information and trying to illegally obtain prescription drugs is not only considered a felony, but it is a major sign of substance abuse.

Any crime in this area of law is very serious in nature and there are various levels of offenses. If charged, these offenses can lead to severe penalties. It is highly recommended that you enlist the help of an experienced legal professional when dealing with this type of charge. The Robinson Law Firm has experience in all kinds of drug crimes; including prescription drugs and prescription fraud. We understand that drug crimes can have a big impact on your family and future, and work tirelessly to give you the defense you need. Contact us today to get the help you need. 

Categories: Blog, Drug Crimes