These charges stem from law enforcement operations targeting pill-mill pharmacies in the Houston area and were unsealed in federal courts across multiple states including Texas, Florida, Missouri and North Carolina, according to an Oct. 3 Department of Justice news release.
Three pharmacy operators from the Houston area were also charged for their involvement. According to court documents, the drugs included potent opioids such as oxycodone, hydrocodone and hydromorphone. The distributors are accused of selling these drugs at inflated prices to customers who would likely sell them on the black market as well as prescription drugs that enhance the opioids.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole Argentieri emphasized that the defendants allegedly exploited the opioid crisis for profit, resulting in a staggering black-market value of $1.3 billion for drugs involved.
Nine individuals have already pleaded guilty in connection with the case.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.