A federal jury in South Florida has convicted pharmacist and pharmacy owner Olushola Yusuf of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and five counts of unlawful drug distribution. The verdict followed a trial concerning two pharmacies she operated in Margate and Pembroke Pines.

According to evidence described by the Justice Department, Yusuf dispensed at least 335,351 oxycodone 30-milligram pills during the conspiracy. Prosecutors said customers paid unusually high cash prices, some traveled long distances and some collected prescriptions purportedly for multiple people who were not present. Witnesses also testified that employees and the Drug Enforcement Administration had warned Yusuf about the operation.

The verdict establishes criminal guilt on the six counts decided by the jury. Yusuf has not yet been sentenced. A hearing is scheduled for October 14, and the judge will determine the sentence after considering federal guidelines and statutory factors. Each count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years, but maximum penalties do not predict the sentence that will be imposed.

The case was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the FBI and the DEA. A co-defendant previously pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing.

Source: U.S. Department of Justice verdict announcement — justice.gov source ↗

Source: U.S. Department of Justice Health Care Fraud Unit — justice.gov source ↗