Drug charges can typically carry long-lasting repercussions for those who are convicted, in addition to possible jail time. Understandably, Georgia officials and the federal government take these types of cases seriously and commonly prosecute this type of accusation to the fullest extent possible under the law. A doctor and three other suspects were charged with the illegal distribution of prescription pain pills in this alleged traveling “pill mill.”
According to reports, authorities launched an investigation that lasted for three years by multiple agencies. Reportedly, the physician would make visits to casinos and become acquainted with the employees while on location. He would allegedly write out prescriptions for a large number of painkillers. When apprehended by law enforcement, the doctor and three others were federally charged with illegally distributing prescription painkillers. Please see this entry.
If the suspects are convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison for conspiracy with intent to distribute Oxycodone. In addition, the suspects could face up to 10 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute hydrocodone. Furthermore, they could face fines totaling $1 million. So far, the doctor has made an initial appearance in court.
As these suspects prepare to enter the courtroom and answer the charges against them, they could benefit from becoming knowledgeable on the criminal law and their rights under relevant federal statutes. Suspects who are charged with drug charges can face harsh consequences if a conviction is ultimately secured by prosecutors. However, the government has to meet the burden of proof and convince a jury. Therefore, those who are charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Source: therepublic.com, Ga doctor, 3 Miss men indicted involving illegal distribution of prescription painkillers, No author, March. 5, 2014