ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – In a shocking turn of events, Centurion Correctional Healthcare New Mexico has agreed to a $215,000 settlement relating to civil claims brought by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on behalf of the United States. This disturbing case highlights the brazen disregard for the law exhibited by this healthcare company.
According to sources, Centurion provides healthcare in prisons in several states, including New Mexico. The DEA issues a registration authorizing Centurion to purchase and distribute controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). However, in a move that has raised serious concerns, Centurion continued to acquire and dispense controlled substances after the expiration of the authorization granted through its DEA registration at the Northeast New Mexico Detention Facility (NENMDF).
The alleged activity took place between October 31, 2019, and November 25, 2019, when another company assumed care for inmates at the facility. Furthermore, the government contended that Centurion abandoned its remaining stock of controlled substances and failed to maintain proper records for controlled substances in violation of the terms of the CSA.
By the terms of the settlement, Centurion agrees to pay $215,000 and the government, upon receipt of the settlement amount, releases Centurion from any civil or administrative monetary claim the United States has for the covered conduct under the CSA. Centurion admits no liability or wrongdoing.
“This settlement strengthens our enforcement efforts with regards to the Controlled Substances Act,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Fred J. Federici. “The Office of the U.S. Attorney plays a vital role in upholding accountability among those authorized by the government to dispense controlled substances. Such authorization conveys a substantial level of trust, and that trust can only be maintained through strict compliance.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth F. Keegan represented the United States in the settlement agreement. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the law and maintaining accountability in the healthcare industry.
Defendant: Centurion Correctional Healthcare New Mexico
Criminal charges: Civil claims under the Controlled Substances Act
City and state: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Date: November 25, 2019, with activity continuing after this date
Sentence or outcome: $215,000 settlement with no admission of liability
Dollar amounts: $215,000
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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