Prescription drug fraud is a broad umbrella that covers a few different situations. One example is the basic possession of prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Others include forging prescriptions or impersonating medical staff. You do not need to be the person using these drugs for the charge to stick either if you are the pharmacist or doctor prescribing medication illegitimately.
All these affect your life in terms of career opportunities, fines and even jail time. As Texas statutes detail, the nuance of prescription fraud depends a lot on the controlled substance in question.
Schedules Of Drugs And Their Charges
Schedule I drugs include illegal drugs like LSD or heroin, but may also include marijuana (medical or otherwise). Schedule II drugs include methadone like Dolophine, oxycodone like Oxycontin and amphetamines like Adderall. In general, committing fraud to distribute or possess these drugs falls under a second degree felony with penalties from two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Schedule III and IV drugs fall under third degree felony charges with penalties of two to 10 years and the same fine. These include drugs like Suboxone and Xanax.
Schedule V drugs include prescriptions like Robitussin AC and fraud falls under a Class A misdemeanor. These fraud charges include penalties of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
The Effect Of Fraud On Your Career
Even the figment of these charges may threaten your career. Whether an employer takes allegations as fact and terminates your career or your reputation precedes you for future opportunities. These emotional tolls may strike as hard as the legal ramifications.
Understanding how these charges affect your future may help you handle your defense against any allegations.