In the medical world, there are medicinal uses for cocaine. This is especially true for plastic surgeons that use the drug as a decongestant and anesthetic on their patients while performing procedures. The drug can help reduce bleeding and shrink tissue.
Just last week, a plastic surgeon who worked at a center in Scottsdale, Arizona was sentenced to 3 years of probation after pleading guilty to stealing medicinal cocaine. Reports indicate that he snuck into a surgery center next door to his office in the middle of the night and stole five vials of cocaine. A person, who was there cleaning the center, saw the doctor and reported him.
In court, the doctor pleaded guilty to both a misdemeanor theft charge and a felony drug-paraphernalia charge. He faced up to two years in prison, but the judge sentenced him to probation instead pointing out that the accused had no previous criminal history and has also recently participated in substance abuse counseling. Once the doctor completes his probation sentence, he can ask the court to downgrade his felony conviction to a misdemeanor.
At this point, the doctor still has a license to practice in Arizona. The Arizona Medical Board has opened an investigation into incident to learn more about the details surrounding the case. No disciplinary action as been taken at this time.
Prescription drug abuse offenses and charges in Arizona can be serious and should not be treated lightly. In this case, the suspect worked with his attorney and the courts immediately to attend a professional treatment program. He also reached out to surgical business he stole from to apologize and work on a resolution to the problem.
Having an attorney who is knowledgeable about the laws of the state and who has experience working with the courts can play an important role in the outcome of any case. It’s crucial that you reach out to an attorney as soon as possible to get advice and create a plan on how to deal with the charges you face.
Mesa Criminal Lawyer Charlie Naegle is ready to help you face these charges and work to get you the best possible outcome. Give Naegle & Crider Criminal Defense Attorneys a call today to set up a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.