Certain crimes in Lubbock apply to “registrants” and “dispensers” of controlled substances. Most people charged with commercial crimes are doctors or pharmacists.
A “registrant” is a person who is registered with the Texas Department of Public Safety to manufacture, distribute, prescribe, possess, analyze, or dispense a controlled substance. A “dispenser” is a licensed health care professional, clinic, pharmacist, or pharmacy that dispenses controlled substances.
Common Commercial Drug Crimes
It is a crime for a registrant or dispenser to knowingly:
- Distribute, administer, or dispense a controlled substance without a medical purpose;
- Prescribe a controlled substance without using an official prescription form;
- Dispense a controlled substance that has not been lawfully prescribed;
- Manufacture a controlled substance that a registrant is not authorized to manufacture;
- Dispense a controlled substance that a dispenser is not authorized to dispense;
- Refuse or fail to make or keep required records required by statute;
- Print, deliver, or possess prescription forms without authorization;
- Refusing to permit an authorized inspection of the premises;
- Failing or refusing to maintain security as required by law.
The crimes described above are state jail felonies, punishable by a sentence of not less than 180 days or more than two years.
Speak With A Lubbock Drug Lawyer Today
If you are a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional who has been accused of dispensing or prescribing a controlled substance in violation of Lubbock law, a conviction could jeopardize your career. Call Hamilton, Hull & Byrd to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney to help you fight against a conviction.
