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Devastating Opioid Crisis: Lathrup Village Doctor Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison
A shocking case of prescription pill diversion and healthcare fraud has come to light in Lathrup Village, Michigan, as Dr. Afzal Beemath was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison on charges of conspiracy and unlawful controlled substance distribution.
According to the evidence presented, Dr. Beemath, 45, owned and operated Afzal Beemath, M.D., P.C., which was marketed as a palliative care clinic in Lathrup Village. The investigation revealed that from January 2013 through October 2018, Beemath prescribed thousands of dosages units of controlled substances, including Oxycodone and Oxymorphone, outside the course of professional medical practice and without any legitimate medical need for the drugs.
The evidence showed that Dr. Beemath issued these prescription drugs to be sold on the illegal street market, fueling the devastating opioid crisis in Michigan. Oxycodone and Oxymorphone are two of the most diverted controlled substances in the area, and their abuse can lead to addiction and eventual heroin use.
Michigan has seen devastating statistics relating to opioid drug overdoses in the last five years. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Regina R. McCullough and Brandy R. McMillion as part of the district’s efforts to address the nation’s opioid crisis.
The case was investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Dr. Beemath was also ordered to pay a $20,000 fine.
This is a stark reminder of the severity of the opioid crisis and the need for increased vigilance in the healthcare industry. The Eastern District of Michigan is one of twelve districts included in the Attorney General’s Opioid Fraud Abuse and Detection initiative.
Defendant Name: Afzal Beemath
Criminal Charges: Conspiracy and Unlawful Controlled Substance Distribution
City and State: Lathrup Village, Michigan
Exact Date: Sentenced on an unspecified date
Sentence or Outcome: 120 months in federal prison and a $20,000 fine
Dollar Amounts: $20,000 fine
Defendant’s Age: 45
Key Facts
- State: Michigan
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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