Prescription drug fraud is a serious offense that can result in significant legal consequences for convicted individuals. If you or a loved one are facing an allegation concerning prescription drugs, the first step is to consult with an expert drug crimes attorney in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan for the best chance at achieving the most favorable outcome for your case.
What Counts As Prescription Drug Fraud?
Prescription drug fraud is a general charge that encompasses a range of illicit activities related to obtaining or distributing controlled substances through deceptive means, including:
Doctor Shopping
Doctor shopping involves visiting multiple healthcare providers to obtain prescriptions for the same or similar medications without disclosing any pre-existing prescriptions. Some individuals engage in doctor shopping to acquire a surplus of controlled substances for personal use or illicit distribution.
Prescription Forgery
Prescription forgery occurs when an individual alters or falsifies a legitimate prescription, or even fabricates a prescription entirely to obtain controlled substances unlawfully. This may involve forging signatures, modifying dosage instructions, or creating fake prescriptions.
Unauthorized Distribution
This form of prescription drug fraud involves individuals unlawfully selling or distributing prescription medications without proper authorization. This could include selling prescription medications on the black market, distributing them to others without a legitimate medical need, or operating illegal pill mills.
Pharmacy Fraud
Pharmacy fraud encompasses deceitful practices committed by pharmacies, pharmacists, or pharmacy employees. This potentially may include falsifying records, dispensing medications improperly, or engaging in fraudulent billing practices, such as overcharging or billing for medications that were not provided to the client for which they were intended.
Legal Consequences of Prescription Drug Crimes
Individuals convicted of prescription drug fraud in Florida may face severe repercussions if they are convicted. Depending on the specifics of the case, these consequences can entail felony charges, heavy fines, potential loss of professional licenses for healthcare practitioners, and enhanced penalties for repeat offenders or those involved in large-scale prescription drug schemes. Inasmuch as all forms of prescription drug fraud are felony offenses, these cases also carry the possibility of state prison sentences.
If you are being charged with prescription drug fraud, you should seek legal counsel and protection from a skilled Clearwater criminal defense attorney with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan.
Potential Defense Strategies Your Attorney May Use
During your trial, your drug crimes attorney in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan will take time to develop the most effective defense strategy on your behalf. After analyzing your situation, they may choose to employ various defense strategies, including:
Lack of Intent
They may choose to demonstrate that the accused had no intention of engaging in fraudulent activity, possibly by establishing a legitimate medical need for the prescribed medications.
Illegal Search and Seizure Challenges
Your attorney may scrutinize the legality of law enforcement actions throughout the proceedings of your case, such as improper searches or seizures, which could lead to the suppression of critical evidence.
Entrapment Claims
Your attorney may argue that you were wrongly induced or coerced by law enforcement into committing the alleged prescription drug fraud.
Diversion Programs
Your attorney may be able to argue that the criminal activity was the result of an addiction problem and that drug treatment and a diversion program are the best solutions to remedy the problem. In many cases, clients who are accepted into a diversion program have their felony charge dismissed or otherwise avoid a conviction with a Withhold of Adjudication.
Do Not Face a Prescription Drug Fraud Investigation By Yourself
Prescription drug fraud charges are very serious and can result in severe repercussions without a strong defense. If you are being investigated for prescription drug fraud, consult with the skilled attorneys with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan.
Contact our office today or call us at (727) 493-9386 to request a consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.