Florida Doctor Faces Significant Sentence for Pushing Drugs
In July 2011, Port Orange, Florida doctor Ataur Rahman and four co-conspirators were arrested for their roles in a multi-state prescription drug trafficking ring. The arrests marked the end of a lengthy investigation involving the Port Orange Police Department, the State Attorney's Office 7th Judicial Circuit, the Florida Department of Health, the Florida Attorney General's Office and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
This multi-agency task force utilized information from pharmacies and concerned citizens, as well as surveillance and undercover operatives to take down the ring. Intelligence revealed the four co-conspirators are all former patients or employees of Rahman and were distributing powerful prescription drugs within several Florida counties and even outside the state. It is alleged that this was all done with Dr. Rahman's knowledge and assistance.
Trafficking Drugs Results in Serious Charges
Dr. Rahman is charged with five counts of trafficking in illegal drugs (oxycodone, an opium derivative), racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering and money laundering. His co-defendants are charged with many of the same offenses. Federal charges were filed because Rahman and his cohorts' illegal activities crossed state lines. Rahman is being held on a total bond amount of $205,000.
Drug Trafficking Carries Serious Penalties
As a Schedule II drug, trafficking oxycodone carries a federal penalty of no more than 20 years in prison on a first offense. If death or serious injury resulted from the trafficking, the sentence for a first offense is no less than 20 years in prison. Additionally, a federal court may impose a fine of up to $1 million for individuals and $5 million for organizations.
If you or a loved one has been charged with any type of drug offense, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss your situation and your rights.
