Pharmacist arrested for illegal distribution of oxycodone

Editor's Note:
This matter occurred on date indicated, but not published at that time due to government shutdown. Press release posted and made available following the return to normal operations.   

HOUSTON – A 65-year-old Sugar Land resident has been charged with illegal distributing over 800 oxycodone pills over the course of just a few days, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Kirti Ruxmohan made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Peter Bray Oct. 6.

The 10-count indictment, returned Oct. 1 and unsealed upon his arrest, alleges Ruxmohan conspired with others to illegally distribute oxycodone from May to June. According to the indictment, the crew leaders paid individuals to pose as patients at Houston-area pill mill clinics to obtain prescriptions for controlled substances.

One leader allegedly worked with Ruxmohan to fill several fraudulent oxycodone prescriptions at his pharmacy. In just a few days in May, they dispensed approximately 810 oxycodone pills, according to the charges.

If convicted, Ruxmohan faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $1 million maximum fine.

Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Olson is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.