Prescription drug fraud occurs in Arapahoe County when someone uses fraud, deceit, or forgery to obtain prescription drugs. Those that are desperate or addicted to these substances can face especially steep penalties should they try to acquire them illegally. Sadly, more and more people are facing significant health risks and even dying due to prescription drug abuse. Any involvement in obtaining prescription drugs illegally requires expert defense from a skilled fraud and deceit attorney.

What is Prescription Fraud and Deceit in Arapahoe County?

C.R.S. 18-18-415 describes the circumstances of Fraud and Deceit in Aurora, CO. Attempting to fill a prescription by one of the following can lead to criminal charges:

• fraud
• deceit
• misrepresentation
• forging or altering a prescription
• using a fake name or address
• making a false statement on a prescription
• impersonating a manufacturer, distributor, practitioner, or other person authorized to obtain controlled substances

Prescription drugs are controlled substances under schedules I through V of Colorado drug laws. Controlled substances obtained via prescription include morphine, hydrocodone, oxycontin, codeine, benzodiazepines, fentanyl, dilaudid, demerol, adderall, and also anabolic steroids.

Sentencing for Fraud and Deceit in Arapahoe County

Under C.R.S. 18-1.3-401.5, the sentencing ranges are specified for drug offenses. Fraud and deceit is a level 4 drug felony punishable by 6 to 12 months in jail and a fine of $1,000 – $100,000. Additionally, aggravating factors can exist in drug felony cases. If a defendant was on parole, probation for a separate felony, or in confinement, a 1 – 2 year prison sentence can apply.

Some individuals who commit prescription drug fraud are severely addicted to opioids, or other particularly harmful substances. On occasion, the court may seek treatment instead of incarceration. If a defendant successfully completes a drug treatment program (as well as other conditions), a felony drug conviction may be vacated and instead deemed a level 1 drug misdemeanor.

Arapahoe County Prescription Drug Attorney

Criminal drug offenses shouldn't be taken lightly in Centennial, Englewood, or Greenwood Village. Prescription fraud also has the potential to lead to other criminal charges, including Unlawful Possession or Unlawful Sale. Good people often make poor choices when it comes to obtaining or distributing prescription drugs. Whether a defendant developed an addiction after a legal prescription following a surgery, or a physician became tempted by easy access, an experienced fraud and deceit attorney is crucial. If authorities call or contact you about a prescription drug situation, decline comment and exercise your right to remain silent. Finally, contact our unmatched criminal defense attorneys to schedule a free consultation.

Don't talk to police about prescription drug fraud - talk to us. 303-830-0880

Photo Credit: Pexels – Pietro Jeng