What Happened
Michael Fletcher, 61, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, a physician at Interventional Pain Specialists in Crestview Hills, Kentucky, and a member of the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, was convicted by a federal judge in July 2024 of unlawfully distributing opioids. Evidence at trial showed he prescribed opioids to patients, including some who had tested positive for cocaine and heroin, in part so he could perform and bill for procedures. Seven patients died of drug-related complications shortly after being prescribed opioids by him. He was convicted of three counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance and faces up to 20 years on each count, with sentencing scheduled for Dec. 17.
“Fletcher was convicted of three counts of unlawful distribution of a controlled substance.”
Related Guidance
- 15 Red Flags of Drug Diversion — Behavioral and transactional indicators of diversion.
- Investigation Playbook — How to investigate suspected diversion inside an organization.