PITTSBURGH – A Pittsburgh man has admitted to a despicable scheme that not only threatened the streets with dangerous drugs but also defiled the sanctity of medical prescriptions. Christopher Nugent, 34, pleaded guilty in federal court today, acknowledging his role in a conspiracy to obtain oxycodone through fraudulent means.
The defendant, Christopher Nugent, along with co-conspirators Ryan Raithel and David Best, hatched a plan to pass off forged prescriptions for the potent pain reliever. United States Attorney David J. Hickton revealed that Nugent’s actions in the Western District of Pennsylvania had put oxycodone into circulation, a drug known for its addictive properties and potential for abuse.
While Ryan Raithel has already taken responsibility by pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute oxycodone, David Best remains unrepentant, having pleaded not guilty to the charges. The severity of Nugent’s crime is underscored by the sentence he now faces: up to four years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both.
Judge Arthur J. Schwab, who oversaw Nugent’s plea, has set sentencing for May 13, 2014, at 10 a.m. The final judgment will be based on the seriousness of the offense and Nugent’s prior criminal history, if any.
Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. Rosen is leading the prosecution against Nugent, with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) having conducted the investigation that led to his conviction. This case serves as a stark reminder of the impact of prescription drug abuse and the lengths some will go to in their pursuit of such harmful substances.
As the DEA continues its efforts to crack down on drug trafficking, Nugent’s plea stands as a testament to the fight against illegal pharmaceutical activity. The grimy realities of this crime are laid bare, leaving no doubt about the harsh consequences awaiting those who prey on the vulnerable through fraud and addiction.
Related Federal Cases
- Pittsburgh Fraudster Kennedy Jailed for 9 Months · Pennsylvania
- Burnette, Jones, Shuttlesworth Convicted in Oxycodone Ring · West Virginia
- Paschall Auto Shop: Oxycodone & Burglary Ring Busted · Maryland
- Pittsburgh Man Jailed For Counterfeiting Cash · Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Man Accused of Possessing Child Sexual Exploitation Images · Pennsylvania
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Sex Crimes|Cybercrime|Public Corruption|Weapons|Human Trafficking|White Collar Crime|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News