Dr. Andrew Charles Hartwig, Fentanyl Tampering, Iowa 2022

Oral Surgeon Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Fentanyl Tampering

Des Moines, IA – In a shocking case of medical malfeasance, Dr. Andrew Charles Hartwig, 55, was sentenced to two years in prison for tampering with his dental practice’s fentanyl supply by removing the medication from vials for his own personal use.

Hartwig, a former oral surgeon in Iowa City and Mt. Pleasant, diverted fentanyl from his previous employer, Oral Surgery Associates of Iowa City, also known as Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center of Iowa City, beginning at least as early as April 2019 and until at least July 10, 2019. His actions resulted in the dilution and contamination of the fentanyl supply.

Hartwig admitted that he acted with reckless disregard that dental patients would be placed in danger of death and bodily injury and manifested extreme indifference to such risk. He pleaded guilty to one count of tampering with consumer products, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1365(a)(4), in October 2022.

The Court imposed a term of supervised release of two years, a fine of $50,000, and a $100 special assessment. The case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

“Patients rely on receiving the proper FDA-approved medications from those entrusted with their medical care,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian G. McClune, Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Kansas City Field Office. “We must hold medical personnel accountable when they take advantage of their unique position and tamper with medications their patients need.”

United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement.

Hartwig’s actions put countless lives at risk, and his sentence serves as a warning to medical professionals who would abuse their power. The community can rest assured that those who put lives in danger will face the full force of the law.

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