Savannah Doctor Guilty of Trading Prescription Drugs for Sex Acts
A 57-year-old Savannah psychiatrist has pleaded guilty to distributing prescription drugs without a legitimate medical purpose, in exchange for sex acts with various women from 2009 through 2012.
William Ellien, a licensed psychiatrist, has been in federal custody since his arrest and is facing up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.
According to evidence presented at the guilty plea hearing, Ellien engaged in a scheme to exchange prescriptions for addictive prescription drugs for sex acts with multiple women.
United States Attorney Edward J. Tarver condemned Ellien’s actions, stating that he ‘violated his oath, preyed upon patients, and turned into a common criminal, all for his own personal gratification.’
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney, E. Greg Gilluly, Jr. For additional information, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney James D. Durham at (912) 201-2547.
Ellien’s sentencing date will be set upon the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case highlights the devastating consequences of prescription drug abuse and the importance of holding healthcare professionals accountable for their actions.
The incident serves as a reminder that healthcare professionals who engage in such behavior will face severe consequences.
Residents of Savannah and surrounding areas are advised to be cautious and vigilant when seeking medical treatment.
Related Federal Cases
- Gregory Paige, Drug Trafficking, Georgia 2023 · Georgia
- Shabazz Sangria Wingfield, Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, Georgia 2013 · Pennsylvania
- William Frazier, Wire Fraud, Georgia 2013 · Washington
- William Campbell, Conspiracy to Distribute and Actual Distribution of Crack Cocaine, Georgia 2013 · Georgia
- R. Wayne Murphy, Prescription Drug Smuggling, Massachusetts 2009 · Georgia
Key Facts
- State: Georgia
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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