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Forged prescriptions lead to arrest of Hopatcong dentist

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Drug crimes not only involve illegal drugs, such as cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin, but also prescription drugs, including Percocet and Oxycontin. In Morris County, New Jersey, a person charged with a drug crime can be subject to serious consequences if convicted. Sentences for drug charges may include a lengthy stay in prison, fines, probation and other penalties.

Recently, a 45-year-old Hopatcong, New Jersey, oral surgeon was arrested for allegedly forging prescriptions to obtain pain-reduction medication. The arrest was the result of a three-month investigation, which consisted of reviewing New Jersey's prescription monitoring program, surveillance, patient interviews and visits to different pharmacies.

The dentist allegedly forged prescriptions to obtain Vicodin, a painkiller. The suspect's modus operandi allegedly was to use the patient's name to obtain a prescription drug and then pick up those painkillers using the patient's identity. The crimes were allegedly committed over a 21-month period.

The suspect was charged with identity theft, possession of drug paraphernalia and obtaining a controlled dangerous substance. The suspect surrendered her license to the state Division of Consumer Affairs and was then released after being charged.

In this case, the suspect's reputation has been jeopardized because a police arrest on prescription drug charges is part of the public record. Conviction will be recorded as well.

Like the dentist, Bergen County residents in a similar predicament may want to consult a legal professional to know how to proceed with the case. Doing so could be the difference between being convicted of the charge and getting it reduced or even dismissed.

Source: Daily Record, "Hopatcong dentist charged with prescription drug fraud," Feb. 13, 2014

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