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Pharmacist Sentenced for Filling Fake Prescriptions
A Pittsburgh-area pharmacist has been sentenced to 40 months in prison for filling fake prescriptions in exchange for cash to support his gambling addiction, according to the United States Attorney David J. Hickton.
Charles Brian Griffin, 27, pleaded guilty to one count of violating federal narcotic laws and was sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Gustave Diamond.
Griffin, who worked as a pharmacist at Walgreens in Washington, Pa., filled large fraudulent oxycodone prescriptions provided by a co-conspirator in exchange for tens of thousands of dollars in cash. The co-conspirator used this cash to support Griffin’s gambling addiction.
According to the court, Griffin and his co-conspirator fraudulently diverted more than 8,000 30mg oxycodone pills over the course of the conspiracy. Griffin was working as a pharmacist at Walgreens from March 2011 until February 2012.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government, while the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation that led to Griffin’s prosecution.
Griffin’s sentencing is a result of a significant investigation that revealed the extent of his crimes. The law provided for a total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of no more than $1,000,000, or both.
The case serves as a reminder of the dangers of prescription drug abuse and the importance of holding those who perpetuate it accountable. Griffin’s sentence is a message to those who would engage in similar crimes that they will face severe consequences.
RELATED: WV Doctor Admits Role in Deadly Opioid Scheme
RELATED: Gastonia Pharmacist Gets 2 Years for Oxycodone Scheme
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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