Bummer’s Buprenorphine Scheme Crumbles
Suboxone clinic doctor Michael Bummer, 39, of Sewickley, PA, has pleaded guilty to three counts of unlawfully distributing controlled substances, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and health care fraud. Bummer, who practiced at Redirections Treatment Advocates in Washington, PA, admitted to conspiring with others to create and submit unlawful prescriptions for buprenorphine, also known as Subutex and Suboxone.
As part of the scheme, Bummer unlawfully dispensed the controlled substances to other individuals. He also admitted to committing health care fraud by causing fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicaid and Medicare for payments to cover the costs of the unlawfully prescribed buprenorphine. The investigation revealed that Bummer’s actions were part of a larger conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and commit health care fraud.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar and Michael L. Ivory are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The investigation was conducted by the Western Pennsylvania Opioid Fraud and Abuse Detection Unit, a multi-agency task force that includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, and several other agencies.
The law provides for a total per count sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $500,000.00, or both, for the controlled substances offenses. Bummer faces an additional maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of $250,000.00 for the health care fraud charge. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based on the seriousness of the offenses and Bummer’s prior criminal history.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab has scheduled sentencing for January 9, 2019, at 11 a.m. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat the prescription opioid epidemic and hold those responsible for health care fraud accountable. As the investigation continues, it is clear that Bummer’s actions have caused significant harm to the community and will not be tolerated.
With the guilty plea, Bummer has taken a significant step towards accountability for his crimes. However, the full extent of the conspiracy and the involvement of others remains to be seen. As the investigation unfolds, it is essential to remain vigilant and continue to hold those responsible for the opioid epidemic accountable.
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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