A veterinarian from Maine, Dr. Alan Toothaker, has agreed to a settlement involving the payment of $145,360 to address claims related to violations of the Controlled Substances Act. These allegations include improper storage and recordkeeping of controlled substances at his veterinary practice.
The U.S. Attorney's Office announced that the settlement resolves accusations against Dr. Toothaker for failing to maintain appropriate records and not conducting regular inventories of controlled substances stored, dispensed, or distributed by his practice.
In May and July 2023, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) attempted audits at Dr. Toothaker’s registered location but encountered issues due to deficient recordkeeping practices. The subsequent inspection highlighted several concerns:
- Lack of oversight in ordering, receiving, and handling controlled substances.
- Storage of controlled substances with non-controlled ones in safes accessible by employees without supervision.
- Incomplete records leading to unaccounted-for controlled substances.
- Continual prescription refills.
- Transfer of controlled substances to an unregistered second practice location.
U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee commented on the findings: “The DEA investigation revealed a practice that lacked adequate security and oversight, making it difficult, if not impossible, to determine whether controlled substances were missing, who took them or even when they went missing.” She emphasized the importance of maintaining complete records amid an opioid crisis.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belleau from the New England Field Division stated: “The DEA is committed to ensuring that veterinarians...handle controlled substances in a lawful manner...Failure to do so increases the diversion potential and jeopardizes public health and safety.”
It is important to note that these claims are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability against Dr. Toothaker.