Malik Fuqua, Drug Diversion Scheme, Michigan 2019

Prison Sentence Deals Blow to Detroit-Area Crime Ring

A Detroit-area physical therapy clinic owner has been dealt a severe blow for his involvement in a massive drug diversion scheme. Malik Fuqua, 49, of Southfield, Michigan, was sentenced to 11 years in prison for his role in the scheme. The harsh sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge David Lawson of the Eastern District of Michigan.

Fuqua’s scheme involved conspiring with other individuals, including Shirley Douglas, 70, of West Bloomfield, Michigan, to distribute medically unnecessary controlled substances, including oxycodone, oxymorphone, alprazolam, hydrocodone and promethazine hydrochloride. The duo would sell appointments with physicians at their clinics to obtain the substances, which were then distributed to those in need.

Prosecutors estimated that the total drug amount attributable to Fuqua is in excess of 500,000 controlled substance pills. The sheer scale of the operation has left many in the community stunned.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski, Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. Plancon of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s Detroit Division, and Special Agent in Charge Lamont Pugh III of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Chicago Regional Office made the announcement. The investigation was led by the DEA and HHS-OIG.

Fuqua was also ordered to forfeit $716,824.23, a significant blow to his ill-gotten gains. Trial Attorneys Malisa Dubal and Patrick Suter of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. The case is part of a larger effort by law enforcement agencies to crack down on Medicare fraud and protect the vulnerable.

As part of the sentence, Fuqua admitted to conspiring with others to distribute controlled substances. His actions have left a lasting impact on the community, and his prison sentence serves as a reminder that those who engage in such crimes will face severe consequences.

The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat Medicare fraud and protect the vulnerable. The harsh sentence is a testament to the dedication of those working to bring criminals to justice.

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