While the use of certain types of controlled medications is legal with a valid prescription from a doctor, its misuse could lead to serious legal complications. Prescription drug fraud is a type of crime that could result in years behind bars, and the prosecution of these charges is aggressive. Those accused of this type of offense need to know what they are up against.

Prescription drug fraud involves various types of actions that allow one to illegally gain access to certain types of controlled substances. This may be for personal use, sale or trafficking purposes. Due to the sharp increase in these types of cases, Florida and the federal government will prosecute these charges to the fullest extent of the law. If you are accused of this type of crime, you would be wise to take immediate action to begin working on your defense strategy. 

What counts as prescription drug fraud? 

The most common way prescription drug fraud occurs is through fraudulent or forged prescriptions. Some of the actions that may lead to an investigation into possible misuse of prescription drugs include: 

• Alteration of a legitimate prescription to a strong dose or higher pill count 
• Theft of a prescription pad from a doctor’s office 
• Returning frequently to the same pharmacy to fill certain types of prescriptions 
• Trying to fill a prescription for someone else 
• Attempting to fill prescriptions for both depressant and stimulant drugs at the same time 

If you are under investigation for prescription drug fraud, it is in your interests to take your situation seriously. Whether you are a patient, doctor or pharmacist accused of mishandling prescriptions or attempting to fraudulently obtain prescription medication, you have the right to fight back and seek to preserve your future interests.  

A strong defense 

There is a lot at stake for you when accused of prescription drug fraud. The optimal defense strategy depends on the details of your individual situation, the evidence brought by the prosecution, your criminal record and more. It is prudent to start considering your defense options as soon as possible, even if you are not yet facing formal charges. You have the right to a defense and a presumption of innocence whether you are under investigation or facing serious drug-related criminal charges.