Carrico Law Offices LC 3630222 TBP 20 due 0716
2 ways you could face prescription drug charges in West Virginia
A drug charge involving prescription fraud is a serious matter. A conviction can result in life-changing penalties.
Two things that can lead to these charges are doctor shopping and prescription forgery. Here is what defendants should know about these two common fraud-related drug crimes.
Drug or doctor shopping
This offense occurs when someone visits multiple health care providers to obtain overlapping prescriptions for a controlled substance. It involves misrepresenting oneself to a practitioner to obtain drugs unlawfully. Doctor shopping is often driven by addiction or the intent to sell prescription drugs illegally.
To prove doctor shopping, authorities typically look for patterns in prescription records, such as multiple prescriptions for the same problem or similar drugs from different doctors within a short time frame. Electronic databases and prescription monitoring programs play a crucial role in detecting these patterns.
Under West Virginia law, doctor shopping is a misdemeanor. It’s punishable by fines and/or incarceration.
Forging or altering a prescription
A more serious example of prescription fraud is forging or altering a prescription. Proving this crime requires evidence of the forged document and the intent to deceive, such as discrepancies in prescription details or signatures.
State law treats prescription forgery as a felony. Penalties can include imprisonment for up to ten years, fines or both.
As you can see, a conviction on even misdemeanor prescription fraud charges can change your life. You have a right to a strong defense when facing criminal charges. Having experienced legal guidance can help you protect your rights and present your case.