FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 2, 2009
WWW.USDOJ.GOV/USAO/MA
CONTACT: CHRISTINA DiIORIO-STERLING
PHONE: (617)748-3356
E-MAIL: USAMA.MEDIA@USDOJ.GOV
SETTLEMENT REACHED WITH WORCESTER DENTIST FOR IMPROPERLY DISPENSING CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
BOSTON - Worcester dentist reaches civil settlement in connection with civil drug diversion allegations.
Acting United States Attorney Michael K. Loucks and Steven W. Derr, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration - Boston Field Division announced today that the United States has reached a settlement with ROBERT ANUSBIGIAN, D.M.D., a dentist practicing in Worcester, Massachusetts, in connection with civil drug diversion allegations. Based upon facts developed in the course of the investigation, the United States contended that between 2006 and 2008, DR. ANUSBIGIAN improperly obtained and distributed approximately 5,700 tablets of hydrocodone, a powerful opioid pain relief medication, failed to maintain proper records and inventories with respect to the hydrocodone in his possession, as is required by law; and dispensed hydrocodone in the absence of a legitimate medical purpose, in violation of the Controlled Substances Act.
DR. ANUSBIGIAN has agreed to pay $50,000 in settlement of the United States’ claims without admitting wrongdoing or liability.
“The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to protecting public health and safety through the vigorous enforcement of the laws and regulations that govern the distribution of prescription drugs and ensuring that these substances are handled safely and appropriately.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Loucks.
The investigation was conducted by the Diversion Investigation Unit of the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha of Loucks' Civil Division.
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