FBI Convicts Online Pharmacy Operator

In October, the operator of an online pharmacy who sold imported cancer drugs illegally to doctors in the U.S. was sentenced to two years in prison. The pharmacy operator, a man from Florida, and his associate sent ads to hundreds of doctor's offices saying the drugs were generic and offering them at discounts of 20 to 35 percent. The misleading ads gave these doctors the idea that the drugs were approved by the FDA, which they weren't. The prescription drugs were manufactured in such countries as Turkey, Pakistan, and India and then shipped to California. There they were repackaged and sent to doctors in California, Texas, and other states.

The defendant was convicted by the FBI after pleading guilty to the sales of unapproved and misbranded drugs as well as other charges, such as conspiracy to commit wire fraud, mail fraud, and other federal offenses. More than 50 doctors across the U.S. purchased the drugs from his online pharmacy. Most of the doctors who purchased the drugs were not aware of the fraud. One doctor, however, was fined $100,000 for buying them and ordered to place statements in medical journals warning other doctors about the danger of buying drugs from foreign countries which have no guarantee of validity and safety for patients who take them.

Criminal Defense Firm Serving Los Angeles, California

Prescription drug fraud can occur in many ways, from selling unapproved drugs online as in the case above to forging prescriptions, altering prescriptions, "doctor shopping," and more. Those who are arrested and charged with prescription drug fraud often face serious felony charges. If they are medical professionals, they face the prospect of the ruin of their career.

Anyone who has been accused of prescription drug fraud or any other type of drug offense should seek the guidance of a competent criminal defense attorney in their local area. In Los Angeles, you can turn to Martinian & Associates, Inc. Founding attorney Tigran Martinian is a 15-year legal veteran in criminal law. His legal team has decades of experience as well in defending clients in criminal charges ranging from DUI to domestic violence, theft crimes, sex crimes, drug crimes, white collar crimes, violent crimes, and more. Overall, the firm has handled hundreds of jury trials and can use their well-honed skills and legal knowhow to help you achieve the most favorable outcome possible. Contact the firm for a free case evaluation about your criminal charges.