Locum Pharmacist Suspended for Theft of Medicines and Possession of Class C Drugs
Date of Decision: May 15, 2018
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- While employed as a locum pharmacist, the registrant stole prescription-only medicines from their employing pharmacy.
- Conviction for theft at Magistrates’ Court.
- Conviction for possession with intent to supply a Class C controlled drug (Clobazam).
- Conviction for possession with intent to supply a Class C controlled drug (Clonazepam).
- Conviction for possession with intent to supply a Class C controlled drug (Nitrazepam).
- By reason of the above convictions, the registrant’s fitness to practise was alleged to be impaired.
Outcome: 12-month suspension order, with an 18-month interim suspension.
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 6 – Behave professionally: Patients and the public put their trust in pharmacy professionals; you must behave in a way that justifies this trust and maintains the reputation of the profession.
- Standard 6.1 – Act with honesty and integrity to maintain public trust and confidence in your profession.
- Standard 6.2 – Do not abuse your professional position or exploit the vulnerability or lack of knowledge of others.
- Standard 6.5 – Meet accepted standards of personal and professional conduct.
Case Summary
Allegations
This case concerned serious allegations of dishonesty and controlled drug offences committed by the registrant while working as a locum pharmacist. The events took place within a community pharmacy setting, embedded within a larger retail store. On the day in question, security staff observed the registrant acting suspiciously—moving between his vehicle, the pharmacy and a consultation room while carrying a holdall and a carrier bag appearing to contain medicines.
Following intervention by the store’s duty manager, two bags containing a large quantity of prescription-only medicines were discovered: one hidden in the consultation room and a second located in the boot of the registrant’s car. These medicines had a total value exceeding £1,290 and included Class C controlled drugs:
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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
- Details of the pharmacy professionals involved