A registered nurse from Grosse Pointe Park, Travis Eskridge, has pleaded guilty to tampering with vials of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. This announcement was made by United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr., accompanied by Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham from the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Chicago Field Office.
Eskridge, 53, worked in the emergency room at Ascension St. John Hospital. He admitted to tampering with fentanyl vials intended for patient use by removing the narcotic and replacing it with another liquid before returning them to the drug storage system. This action posed a significant risk to patients and was part of a pattern of thefts over several months. Upon discovery in August 2022, Eskridge was removed from his position at the hospital.
United States Attorney Gorgon emphasized the responsibility of medical professionals: “Licensed medical professionals are supposed to be healers. Most are. When instead of healing they create a serious risk of harm to patients, the community must and will be protected.” He added that such cases would be prosecuted vigorously.
Special Agent Ronne Malham remarked on the importance of trust in medical care: “Patients rely on receiving the proper FDA-approved medications from those entrusted with their medical care.” He stressed accountability for those who misuse their positions.
Eskridge entered his guilty plea before United States District Judge Susan K. DeClercq and remains on bond under conditions that prevent him from seeking employment as a nurse until sentencing on September 11, 2025.
The offense carries maximum penalties including up to 10 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and supervised release for up to five years. The actual sentence will be determined by the Court following consideration of sentencing guidelines.
This case is being investigated by special agents from the Food and Drug Administration.