Bonnie Jennifer Sherrard, Controlled Substance Distribution, Louisiana 2020

Ruston Woman Indicted for Illegally Dispensing Controlled Substances

Bonnie Jennifer Sherrard, 46, of Ruston, Louisiana, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Shreveport for illegally dispensing and distributing controlled substances. Sherrard, a nurse practitioner licensed to practice in the State of Louisiana, worked with a physician in Ruston.

The indictment alleges that Sherrard used a DEA Registration Number issued to another person and illegally dispensed and distributed controlled substances outside the bounds of professional medical practice. In addition, the indictment seeks forfeiture of Sherrard’s license to practice as a nurse practitioner in the State of Louisiana.

According to the indictment, Sherrard was authorized to distribute and dispense controlled substances in accordance with a collaborative practice agreement between her and the physician. However, she was not authorized to prescribe controlled substances in connection with treatment for chronic pain or in connection with the treatment of family members.

Sherrard allegedly distributed and dispensed controlled substances, including Hydrocodone, Adderrall, Xanax, and Clonazepam, without a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice to members of her family on or about January 11, 2020, through November 27, 2020.

An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Sherrard faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 on the counts involving illegal dispensation and distribution.

In addition, if convicted, Sherrard faces a sentence of up to 4 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 on the count involving illegal use of a DEA Registration Number issued to another person.

The case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Flanagan.

Defendant: Bonnie Jennifer Sherrard, 46, of Ruston, Louisiana

Criminal Charges: Use of a DEA Registration Number issued to another person; Illegal dispensation and distribution of controlled substances outside the bounds of professional medical practice

City and State: Shreveport, Louisiana

Date of Crime: January 11, 2020, through November 27, 2020

Sentence or Outcome: Currently indicted; faces up to 20 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 on the counts involving illegal dispensation and distribution; faces up to 4 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 on the count involving illegal use of a DEA Registration Number issued to another person

Dollar Amounts: Up to $250,000 fine

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