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Nursing Supervisor Indicted for Painkiller Trafficking
Buffalo, NY – A shocking indictment has been handed down in a case involving a nursing supervisor who allegedly sold prescription painkillers from her office at a local health care center. Catherine Vitello, 41, of Elma, New York, has been charged with four counts of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of hydrocodone, fentanyl, and alprazolam.
According to the indictment, Vitello sold un-used prescription drugs from her office as the Director of Nursing at the St. Catherine Laboure Health Care Center in Buffalo. On three separate occasions in October 2013, the defendant sold hydrocodone, fentanyl, and alprazolam to a confidential source working with the Drug Enforcement Administration.
The charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. Assistant U.S. Attorney John M. Alsup is handling the case.
The investigation was a collaborative effort among the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of James J. Hunt, Acting Special Agent in Charge, New York Field Office, the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Michel, the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Daniel Derenda, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Howard.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Vitello’s alleged actions have sent shockwaves through the community, raising questions about the security of prescription medications and the integrity of healthcare professionals.
As the investigation continues, residents are left wondering how such a serious crime could occur under the radar. The indictment serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant oversight and accountability in the healthcare industry.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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