Bridget Luzod, Controlled Substance Scheme, Florida 2024

Tampa, Florida - A shocking indictment has been revealed in Tampa, Florida, involving Bridget Luzod, a 42-year-old clinic owner, and Victor Silva, MD, a 79-year-old doctor. The two are accused of a brazen controlled substance scheme that has left authorities reeling.

According to the indictment, Luzod, the owner and primary operator of Thrive Medical Clinic in South Tampa, portrayed herself as a doctor or nurse to her patients. However, she had only a basic x-ray machine operator license, which expired in 2018 and was not renewed until March 2024. She was not licensed to practice medicine in Florida and did not have a DEA registration number to prescribe controlled substances.

Around March 2020, Luzod hired Dr. Silva to serve as Thrive's medical director. Despite not examining patients, diagnosing them, prescribing treatments, or reviewing their medical files, Silva allowed Luzod to use his credentials and DEA registration number to treat her patients, friends, and family members with controlled substances, including Adderall, testosterone, hydrocodone, and phentermine. Luzod regularly forged Silva's signature or used a rubber stamp to affix it to prescriptions.

The indictment charges Luzod and Silva with one count of conspiring to distribute controlled substances, one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, 19 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances, and 19 counts of unlawful distribution of controlled substances using a registration number issued to another person. If convicted on all counts, Luzod and Silva each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.

The indictment also notifies Luzod and Silva that the United States intends to forfeit any money or asset traceable to proceeds of the offenses. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Health, the Tampa Police Department, and the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael M. Gordon.

An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

Bridget Luzod, Clinic Owner, and Victor Silva, MD, have been charged with a controlled substance scheme in Tampa, Florida. Luzod and Silva face a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison if convicted on all counts.

This case highlights the importance of proper medical licensing and the dangers of unscrupulous medical professionals. It also serves as a reminder that the authorities are committed to protecting the public and bringing those responsible to justice.

The indictment in this case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of controlled substance abuse and the critical need for law enforcement to crack down on those who perpetuate this crime.

Bridget Luzod and Victor Silva, both of Tampa, Florida, were indicted for their roles in the controlled substance scheme. The case is ongoing, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/clinic-owner-and-doctor-indicted-scheme-distribute-controlled-substances