GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE: Dr. Brian Heim, 56, an Akron physician, faces a litany of federal charges for his alleged role in the illegal distribution of tens of thousands of prescription painkillers. United States Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach announced that Heim has been charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and 20 counts of distribution of controlled substances.
“Our region is awash in opioids that have brought heartbreak and suffering to countless families,” Dettelbach warned. “We will continue to work with the DEA to identify and prosecute physicians who illegally divert pills.”
Heim, a registered medical doctor specializing in family medicine, obstetrics, and gynecology, is accused of distributing more than 30,000 tablets of Oxycodone, Oxycontin, and Opana without legitimate medical purpose from his office at 3562 Ridge Park Drive, Suite A, Akron. The illegal activities are alleged to have occurred between August 2011 and October 2012.
According to the charges, Heim and associates used pre-signed blank prescription forms, which staff would fill in with the controlled substances and dosages. This systematic approach is said to have contributed to the vast quantities of pills being distributed without proper patient verification or medical necessity.
The case against Heim was brought to light following an extensive investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant U.S. Attorney Vasilie C. Katsaros will be handling the prosecution.
Should Heim be found guilty, his sentence will depend on a court review of federal sentencing guidelines and specific factors unique to this case, including any prior criminal history. As always, it is crucial to remember that a charge is not evidence of guilt; the defendant is entitled to a fair trial where the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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