NI Locum Pharmacist Suspended for Diazepam Theft and Dishonesty Granted Conditional Return
Date of Decision: May 16, 2024
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- Abuse of position as Responsible Pharmacist to unlawfully obtain controlled drugs (Diazepam)
- Theft of over-the-counter toiletries from pharmacy
- Criminal convictions for theft and unlawful possession of controlled drugs
- Previous regulatory warning for similar misconduct in 2015
Outcome: Conditions imposed for 18 months following suspension
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 3 – Act with professionalism and integrity at all times
- Standard 5 – Maintain and develop your knowledge and skills
- Standard 6 – Be honest and trustworthy
- Standard 9 – Demonstrate leadership
Case Summary
Allegations
The registrant, a pharmacist, faced serious allegations stemming from two incidents in June 2021 while working as a locum at Well Pharmacy in Newtownabbey. The first occurred on 8 June, when the registrant was observed taking five items, including toiletries valued at £30.35, from the pharmacy without paying. The second, more serious, incident happened on 11 June, when the registrant stole two boxes (56 tablets) of Diazepam 5mg—a controlled drug under Schedule 4 of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations and Class C under the Misuse of Drugs Act—while acting as the Responsible Pharmacist. The Diazepam was placed in a white paper prescription bag and removed from the pharmacy without any prescription or authorisation. CCTV confirmed both thefts.
Subsequently, on 31 May 2022, the registrant pleaded guilty at Laganside Courthouse to three offences: theft of toiletries, theft of Diazepam, and unlawful possession of a controlled drug. He was sentenced on 7 July 2022 to 150 hours of unpaid community service.
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- Full allegations considered by the GPhC
- Panel findings and reasoning
- Outcome of the investigation
- Sanctions considered and imposed on the Pharmacist
- Key professional learning points
Original Case Document
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- Full hearing transcript
- Detailed findings of fact
- Sanction reasoning
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