A Tazewell County dentist pled guilty this past week to distribution of hydrocodone (commonly known by the brand name Vicodin). He was writing prescriptions for the pain killer for the last nine years and it finally caught up with him.
Dr. Peter M. Francisco won’t be writing any prescriptions anymore however, as he has lost his privilege to prescribe medication. He also faces up to 15 years in prison according to this report from WVEC. Francisco’s sentencing is scheduled for February 23rd.
The U.S. Attorney on the case states that over a period of 9 years from 2000 to 2009, Francisco wrote prescriptions for over 10,000 of the painkillers to 3 people. These people would fill the orders and return the drugs to Francisco.
In Virginia, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, whether it is prescriptions drugs, marijuana, or cocaine, is a serious offense. You’re looking at felony charges and years behind bars.
The prosecution will use all sorts of methods to get a conviction in your case and it is your defense attorney’s job to ensure you have the best possible chance at overcoming their charges.
If you are facing serious drug charges like these, an experienced defense team is necessary.
The evidence in your case is crucial. How it was obtained and handled throughout the arrest process can impact your case in a major way. If the evidence was mishandled in any way, we can motion the court to suppress it, keeping it out of your trial altogether.
Often, if this is your first run in with the law, we can work with the prosecutor to set up some sort of plea agreement. Perhaps you are facing years behind bars but we can get the sentences suspended for probation instead.
Knowing the details of your case is crucial in determining the next move to take. Call me today for a free consultation and legal advice on your Virginia drug case.