A former North Texas pharmacist has been sentenced to federal prison for his role in a massive oxycodone trafficking scheme. John Christopher Esparza, a 29-year-old from Granbury, Texas, was handed a 72-month prison sentence on May 6, 2016, for his crimes.
According to court records, Esparza, who was the pharmacist in charge of Trinity Pharmacy in Carrollton, Texas, sold large quantities of oxycodone to another individual between November 2012 and September 2015. The investigation revealed that a review of the pharmacy’s inventory records suggested a whopping $2.9 million worth of oxycodone was unaccounted for.
Esparza pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute oxycodone on January 5, 2016. The indictment against him was handed down by a federal grand jury on September 10, 2015.
The investigation into Esparza’s crimes was a collaborative effort involving the Drug Enforcement Administration – Dallas Field Division Tactical Diversion Squad, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Texas Board of Pharmacy, and the McKinney Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys in the Eastern District of Texas prosecuted the case, which has sent a clear message to those involved in the illegal trafficking of prescription medications.
Esparza’s sentence serves as a reminder that those who engage in such illicit activities will be held accountable for their actions. The people of Texas deserve to know that their communities are safe from those who would seek to harm them through the trafficking of opioids.
The case against Esparza is a prime example of the ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic that has plagued the nation. As a community, it is our responsibility to support those affected by addiction and to hold accountable those who contribute to the problem.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney John M. Bales said, ‘The sentence imposed today reflects the gravity of Mr. Esparza’s crimes and the significant harm caused to our community by his actions.’
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Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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