Oklahoma City Nurse Practioner Pays $50,000 To Settle Civil Penalty Claims Involving Violations Of Controlled Substances Act

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma -- Brandi A. Kammerer, N.P., who practices in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, has agreed to pay $50,000 to the United States to settle civil penalty claims stemming from allegations that she violated the Controlled Substances Act, announced Sanford C. Coats, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.

The Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. Sections 801 et seq. ("CSA"), was passed by Congress to combat the illegal distribution and abuse of controlled substances, including prescription medications. The CSA is enforced by the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Office of Diversion Control, with a mission to prevent, detect, and investigate the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals and listed chemicals from legitimate sources while ensuring an adequate and uninterrupted supply for legitimate medical, commercial, and scientific needs.

The United States alleged that from September 10, 2010, through August 29, 2012, Ms. Kammerer issued prescriptions to individuals for controlled substances that were not for a legitimate medical purpose and not in the usual course of professional practice. More specifically, NP Kammerer improperly issued prescriptions for controlled substances to two family members, and without having established a provider/patient relationship.

In order to resolve the civil penalty claims by the United States, Ms. Kammerer agreed to pay $50,000 to the government. In reaching this settlement, Ms. Kammerer did not admit liability, and the government did not make any concession regarding the legitimacy of the claims. The agreement allows the parties to avoid the delay, expense, inconvenience, and uncertainty involved in litigating the case.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Office of Diversion Control and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ronald R. Gallegos.