Orthopedic Surgeon Charged With Unlawful Distribution Of Oxycodone
ALBANY, N.Y. - Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration James J. Hunt, New York Division and United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian announced the arrest of Jeffrey Gundel, M.D. Gansevoort, New York on charges of unlawful distribution of oxycodone.
Jeffrey Gundel, an orthopedic surgeon, provided oxycodone prescriptions to individuals whom he had never examined nor met. As part of this investigation, an undercover agent was written four 240 count, 30 mg oxycodone prescriptions without ever meeting Gundel. Gundel would exchange prescriptions for a payment of $2,400 each prescription. When Gundel wrote these prescriptions, he knew that by doing so he was violating the law and generally accepted medical practice.
Following an initial appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Christian F. Hummel, Gundel was released on conditions. If convicted, Gundel faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, and a term of supervised release.
The investigation is being conducted by the DEA Albany Resident Office Tactical Diversion Squad, the New York State Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement and the New York State Office of Financial Services.
The charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court. If convicted, Gundel faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, and a term of supervised release.
