Former pharmacist Jason J. Jungert, 36, of Lewiston, Idaho, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Edward J. Lodge to five years probation for acquiring a controlled substance by deception, the U.S. Attorney's Office announced. The probation terms prohibit Jungert from being employed as a pharmacist and require him to undergo intensive drug treatment and testing. Jungert pleaded guilty to the charge in December 2010.

Jungert admitted that between March and April 2010, while employed as a pharmacist at Orchard's Pharmacy in Lewiston, he stole approximately 200 to 300 hydrocodone pills. Jungert's employment was subsequently terminated. An audit revealed a substantial number of hydrocodone pills were missing from the store's inventory during the time Jungert was employed at the pharmacy. The pharmacy owner reported the theft to the Drug Enforcement Administration. Their subsequent investigation identified several instances where Jungert filled hydrocodone prescriptions without requests from patients.

As part of his plea agreement, Jungert paid $808 in restitution to the pharmacy owner.

“The diversion and abuse of prescription drugs is one of the top priorities for the Drug Enforcement Administration,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Mark Thomas. “This individual held a trusted position in our community and his actions have consequences.”