On November 21, a civil settlement was reached between Dr. Rodney Hartshorn, a veterinarian in Cheyenne, Wyoming, and the United States Attorney's Office. Dr. Hartshorn agreed to pay a $30,000 penalty to resolve allegations of violations under the Controlled Substance Act.
The investigation into Dr. Hartshorn began when the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) received information that his practice, Avenues Pet Hospital, routinely accepted controlled substances from clients and placed them in an unlocked bin marked for "donated" medications. These substances were then reportedly made available to other clients.
On April 23, DEA officials inspected Avenues Pet Hospital and discovered issues with recordkeeping and the security of controlled substances. They also seized drugs found in the "donated" medication bin during their inspection.
Acting United States Attorney Eric Heimann stated, “It is through our partnership with the DEA that we can ensure DEA registrants maintain proper records and institute proper protocols so that controlled substances do not fall into the wrong hands.”
DEA Rocky Mountain Field Division Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Pullen commented on their efforts by saying, “DEA works diligently to ensure the safety of the public by regulating the use of controlled substances. We work daily to ensure DEA registrants are using their registrations in a manner consistent with the best interests and safety for the people of Wyoming.”
The investigation was conducted by DEA Special Agents and Diversion Investigators and managed by Assistant United States Attorney Levi Martin.
Case No. 2024-V-00086