Tucson ‘Liposuction Technician’ And Aide Arrested On Multiple Felony Charges
Clinic operated without a State Medical License or DEA Registration Two victims were admitted to Tucson emergency rooms with severe infections
TUCSON, Ariz. - Drug Enforcement (DEA) Special Agent in Charge Doug Coleman today announced the arrest of Gustavo Nunez and Ilda Garcia on felony charges including Possession of Dangerous (ARS 13-3407 A.1) and Practicing Medicine without a (ARS 13-3455). The charges arise from a three-month investigation conducted by the DEA’s Tactical Diversion Squad, the Tucson Police Department and the South Tucson Police Department.
The investigation uncovered evidence that Gustavo Nunez performed illegal medical procedures at his clinic known as NuTec located in an industrial warehouse in Tucson. Specifically, in at least two separate occasions, Nunez performed liposuction and breast augmentation procedures at his clinic on two female subjects. Both female subjects suffered severe complications following the procedures and were immediately admitted to Tucson emergency rooms to seek medical attention.
Nunez also prescribed Controlled Substances to the female patients after the procedures causing one of the female patients to become unconscious for several hours.
Nunez and his aide performed these medical practices and dispensed prescription drugs without a State Medical License or a DEA Registration.
“Mr. Nunez was not a doctor; he did not practice medicine-instead he ran a scheme to victimize Arizonans by performing botched medical procedures and prescribing controlled substances without regard to the well-being of others,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Doug Coleman.
“DEA and its partners will stand firm on its commitment to investigate and prosecute these type of illegal medical practices and prevent controlled substances from being diverted into the wrong hands and endangering the health of our citizens.”
On August 1, 2013, Nunez and Garcia were taken into custody following a search warrant conducted at Nunez’ clinic located at 1656 N. 5th Ave in Tucson. The warrant led to the seizure of various controlled substances including (Halcion), Alprazolam, Valium, all Schedule IV Controlled Substances. Agents discovered three refrigerators filled with an assortment of prescription-only pharmaceuticals.
Also seized were various liposuction needles some of which were half full with people’s names on them. Re-used needles prepared for use were also seen in the clinic.
This is an ongoing investigation and if anyone has information concerning this matter, please contact the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad (520) 573-5500.
This case was investigated by the DEA Tactical Diversion Task Force consisting of members from the DEA, the Tucson Police Department, and the South Tucson Police Department. The case will be prosecuted by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.
