Investigative Article
Arizona Prescription Drug Fraud Defense: Understanding Types, Penalties, and How to Defend Yourself
Prescription drug fraud has become a serious issue in Arizona, leading to strict laws and harsh penalties for those charged with the offense. According to reports, prescription drug fraud accounts for a large percentage of drug-related arrests in Arizona, with many individuals facing severe consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and a criminal record.
The Scope of Prescription Drug Fraud in Arizona
Prescription drug fraud involves a wide range of offenses, including forging or altering prescriptions, and obtaining or providing prescription drugs illegally. Those charged with prescription drug fraud can include doctors, pharmacists, drug addicts, or individuals seeking to make a profit.
In Arizona, prescription drug fraud is taken very seriously, with harsh penalties for those convicted. According to the Controlled Substances Prescription Monitoring Program, there were over 240,000 prescription drug fraud reports in Arizona between 2016-2019. Of these reports, around 86% involved forged prescriptions or altered prescriptions.
The Types of Prescription Drug Fraud
Prescription drug fraud takes various forms, below are some examples:
Forging a Prescription
Forging a prescription involves creating a fake prescription in the name of another person, a non-existent person, or a fictitious doctor. Forging a prescription is a criminal offense and can lead to imprisonment and hefty fines.
Altering a Prescription
Altering a prescription involves changing the information on a legitimate prescription to obtain more drugs or increase the dosage. Altering a prescription is also a criminal offense, and if convicted, you may face jail time and large fines.
Doctor Shopping
Doctor shopping involves visiting several doctors or hospitals to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same drug. This practice is illegal, and those caught can face severe consequences, including imprisonment and revocation of their medical license.
The Penalties for Prescription Drug Fraud in Arizona
The penalties for prescription drug fraud in Arizona vary according to the severity of the offense and the defendant's criminal record. However, the state imposes harsh penalties for this offense, including:
Imprisonment
Prescription drug fraud can lead to imprisonment, ranging from a few months to several years, depending on the offense's severity. Those convicted of prescription drug fraud can expect to serve time in a state or federal prison.
Monetary Fines
Prescription drug fraud can also result in hefty fines ranging from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The amount of fine imposed depends on the offense's severity and the defendant's criminal record.
Criminal Record
Those found guilty of prescription drug fraud receive a criminal record, which can affect their employment, housing, and other future opportunities.
How to Defend Yourself
If you are facing prescription drug fraud charges in Arizona, it is essential to hire an experienced federal defense attorney with a proven track record of handling prescription drug fraud cases.
An experienced defense attorney will investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense strategy on your behalf. They will examine factors such as the prescription's legality, the defendant's intent and state of mind, and the possibility of mistaken identity.
Moreover, a skilled defense attorney will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case, whether through plea bargaining, reduced charges, or dismissal of charges.
Contact a Federal Defense Attorney
Prescription drug fraud is a serious charge, and if you have been accused, your future is at stake. Seeking the assistance of an experienced federal defense attorney is the first step in building a strong defense and protecting your rights.
To learn more about prescription drug fraud defense in Arizona, contact Kolsrud Law Offices today.
Arizona Prescription Drug Fraud Defense-Kolsrud
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