NI Pharmacist Struck Off After Stealing 32,000+ Pregabalin and Controlled Drugs to Fund Cocaine Addiction

Date of Decision: October 3, 2019

Registrant's Role: Pharmacist

Allegations:

  • a. Two offences of possession of controlled drugs (cocaine and diazepam) on 16 March 2016.
  • b. Two offences of possession of cocaine between 14 April 2015 and 17 March 2016.
  • c. Six offences of unlawful supply of controlled drugs (dihydrocodeine, diazepam and tramadol) between 14 April 2015 and 17 March 2016.
  • d. Two offences of possession of pregabalin with intent to supply otherwise than in accordance with a prescription.
  • e. One offence of theft of 32,358 tablets (pregabalin, dihydrocodeine, diazepam and tramadol), valued at approximately £25,000.
  • f. Between 14 April 2015 and 17 March 2016, the registrant obtained and consumed cocaine, a Class A controlled drug, while employed as a registered pharmacist.

Outcome: Strike Off Order (with interim suspension pending appeal period)

GPhC Standards Breached:

  • Standard 1 – Make the safety and welfare of patients your prime concern
  • Standard 2 – Provide a safe and quality service
  • Standard 3 – Act with professionalism and integrity at all times
  • Standard 4 – Exercise professional judgement in the interests of patients and the public
  • Standard 6 – Maintain and develop professional knowledge and competence, including informing relevant authorities of health issues affecting fitness to practise
  • Standard 7 – Act with honesty and integrity
  • Standard 8 – Provide a high standard of practice and care at all times

Case Summary

Allegations

This case concerned a registered pharmacist who engaged in prolonged criminal conduct involving both illicit drug use and the diversion of prescription-only medicines (POMs) and controlled drugs from her employer’s pharmacy.

Between April 2015 and March 2016, while employed across three community pharmacies in Belfast (including working as a relief manager and locum pharmacist), the registrant stole 32,358 tablets comprising pregabalin, dihydrocodeine, diazepam and tramadol. The stolen medication was valued at approximately £25,000.

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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

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