Florida Couple Indicted for Oxycodone Distribution in Connecticut

GRIMY TIMES EXCLUSIVE: A Florida couple has been slammed with federal charges for allegedly distributing oxycodone across the state line. Harry Duren, 73, and his wife Sandra Duren, 53, from Seminole, Florida, are accused of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute the prescription painkiller.

The grim allegations emerged after a federal grand jury in New Haven indicted the couple on October 19, 2016. The defendants appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A. L. Merriam, where they were released on $50,000 bonds.

According to court documents, the Durens obtained prescriptions for oxycodone-filled medications from Connecticut doctors, including Dr. Paul Bellofiore, between January 2005 and July 2016. They then reportedly arranged to resell the medications for profit. The couple, once residents of Connecticut, are accused of exploiting the state’s prescription drug system.

If convicted, the Durens face a stiff penalty: up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of $1 million. However, U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly reminded that an indictment is not proof of guilt; the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation into the Durens’ alleged activities was led by the DEA’s New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, which includes officers from various local police departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Avi M. Perry is handling the prosecution of this case.

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