Boots Pharmacist Removed from Register Due to Conviction for Theft and Drug Supply

In a recent determination by the General Pharmaceutical Council’s Fitness to Practise Committee, a pharmacist was removed from the register following a conviction for theft and possession with intent to supply controlled drugs. The hearing, held on September 14, 2021, addressed allegations that the pharmacist had been convicted of two counts of theft by employee and two counts of possession with intent to supply Class C controlled drugs, specifically Temazepam and Diazepam.

The findings revealed that the pharmacist, employed by Boots UK Ltd, had engaged in a systematic course of conduct over nine months, stealing controlled drugs and supplying them to third parties for financial gain. Despite being under pressure, the pharmacist failed to report the situation to his employer or regulator, breaching fundamental principles of the pharmacy profession.

The GPhC determined that the pharmacist’s fitness to practise was impaired due to his convictions, which posed a risk to public safety and brought the profession into disrepute. The committee highlighted breaches of GPhC standards, including acting with integrity, speaking up when things go wrong, and demonstrating leadership.

As a result, the committee decided on the removal of the pharmacist from the register, emphasizing the seriousness of his actions and the need to maintain public confidence in the profession. Interim suspension measures were also imposed to protect the public while the decision takes effect.

This case serves as a critical reminder for pharmacy professionals about the importance of upholding ethical standards and the severe consequences of criminal behavior within the profession. It underscores the necessity for pharmacists to act with integrity and prioritize patient safety above personal gain.