MISSOULA, Montana – In a shocking case of medical malfeasance, a Missoula nurse has been sentenced for diverting powerful painkillers from a local hospital for her own use.
Mary Schmidt Monahan, 61, pleaded guilty to unlawfully obtaining controlled substances by fraud, deception, and subterfuge in January 2021. On [date missing], U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen handed down a lenient sentence of two years of probation and fined Monahan $2,000.
According to court documents, Monahan, a nurse at Community Medical Center in Missoula, diverted fentanyl and hydromorphone from July 2020 until about February 2021. The scheme was uncovered when a coworker noticed Monahan acting suspiciously in January 2021, observing her filling syringes with two drug vials and then hiding them in her jacket pocket.
Monahan’s supervisors confronted her after another coworker reported seeing her stealing narcotics and using them. A search of Monahan’s bag revealed unmarked syringes, some of which were used, and wrappers from used alcohol swabs. Monahan provided a urine sample, which tested positive for fentanyl.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the Missoula Police Department.
Monahan’s sentencing is a stark reminder of the dangers of prescription drug abuse and the importance of accountability in the medical profession.
The case serves as a warning to healthcare professionals who would seek to exploit their positions for personal gain.
Monahan’s name will be added to the list of healthcare professionals who have fallen victim to the temptation of prescription drug abuse.
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Key Facts
- State: Montana
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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