In a recent legal development, the Justice Department has filed a civil complaint against Walgreens Boots Alliance and its subsidiaries. The lawsuit, submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, accuses Walgreens of violating the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and the False Claims Act (FCA). The allegations suggest that Walgreens dispensed millions of prescriptions without legitimate medical purposes and sought reimbursement from federal health care programs.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton stated, "This lawsuit seeks to hold Walgreens accountable for the many years that it failed to meet its obligations when dispensing dangerous opioids and other drugs." He added that Walgreens pharmacists allegedly filled prescriptions with clear red flags indicating their unlawfulness.
The complaint outlines that from August 2012 onwards, Walgreens knowingly filled prescriptions lacking a legitimate medical purpose. These included excessive quantities of opioids and early refills. Furthermore, it is alleged that Walgreens pressured pharmacists to fill prescriptions quickly without verifying their validity.
If found liable, Walgreens could face significant penalties under both the CSA and FCA. Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual emphasized the importance of these laws in protecting communities from opioid dangers.
U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg noted the ongoing impact of the opioid crisis across Florida and nationwide, highlighting this legal action as a significant step in addressing community harm.
The lawsuit underscores pharmacies' role in ensuring lawful prescription dispensing, with U.S. Attorney Erek Barron asserting commitment to holding entities accountable for contributing to the opioid epidemic.
Acting U.S. Attorney Carolyn Pokorny remarked on New York's struggle with opioids and criticized Walgreens for neglecting its responsibilities during this period.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Maya D. Song reiterated the Justice Department's focus on combating the opioid crisis and maintaining corporate accountability.
DEA Principal Deputy Administrator George Papadopoulos accused Walgreens of ignoring red flags about suspicious prescribing practices, emphasizing DEA's commitment to pursuing those prioritizing profit over safety.
Deputy Inspector General Christian J. Schrank warned against pharmacies endangering public health by disregarding federal laws for profit motives.
Four whistleblowers have filed actions under the FCA's qui tam provisions, allowing private parties to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims.
Assistant Director Amy DeLine leads representation for this case along with Senior Litigation Counsel Donald Lorenzen and Trial Attorney Nicole Frazer from various branches within the Justice Department's Civil Division.
The Justice Department remains dedicated to addressing those responsible for fueling the opioid crisis through illegal activities as part of its broader efforts involving multiple agencies including DEA, FBI, HHS-OIG among others involved in investigating such matters.