Los Gatos, California doctor hit with 18 counts of drug charges

 Posted on October 25, 2012 in Drug Crimes

Law enforcement says that a Los Gatos, California doctor engaged in unlawful drug sales and illegally possessed controlled substances. Prosecutors are bringing 18 felony counts against the medical professional. The California drug crime allegations began after agents in Santa Clara County say that they noticed the doctor's name showed up in a number of police reports involving drug-related issues.

Agents apparently raided the doctor's home and claim that the residence contained methamphetamine, marijuana and ecstasy. Police also claim that the house was littered with foil and pens that officials concluded were linked to illicit drug use. Authorities also say that a marijuana grow room was located inside the house and pot was drying in the garage.

Authorities accuse the 61-year-old doctor of prescribing medications to people who have criminal drug histories. In addition, the doctor is accused of trading medications like OxyContin for methamphetamine or cash. Prosecutors further claim that the doctor gave minors methamphetamine and pot.

The man faces 18 counts of California drug charges that range from possession of methamphetamine and marijuana for sale to possession of psilocybin mushrooms and ecstasy. Authorities also accuse the doctor of prescribing drugs to addicts and prescribing drugs without a legitimate medical purpose. The medical professional could receive up to 30 years in prison, if convicted of the drug charges.

A 32-year-old man who lives in the same home is also facing drug charges after the multi-agency probe. Authorities accuse the doctor's roommate of three counts of felony drug charges, but it is unclear in the media what involvement authorities believe the roommate had in any drug-related offenses.

Source: San Jose Mercury News, "Police arrest Los Gatos doctor on drug charges," Judy Peterson, Oct. 22, 2012