Prescription medication abuse is a growing problem in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, and has led to some people passing a forged prescription.
Prescription medications are easier to obtain than many illegal controlled substances, but they are just as dangerous. This is particularly true of narcotic pain relievers. Oxycontin, Percocet, and Vicodin are all highly addictive.
Often, a person’s abuse of these medications starts innocently enough. They are prescribed and used to alleviate real pain. But it is easy to become chemically dependent upon them.
As the problem has become larger, law enforcement has become more stringent especially when someone is passing a forged prescription.
Laws About Passing a Forged Prescription
Oklahoma uses a system of five “schedules” to classify all controlled dangerous substances, including prescription medications. The classifications are made based upon the level of addictive risk weighed against the medical value of the substance.
Prescription medications such as Oxycontin, Percocet, and Vicodin are classified as Schedule II substances. These are some of the most sought after and abused prescription medications on the market today.
Controlled substances on Schedules I and II carry the most addictive risk, and possession of them without a valid prescription is a felony offense in Oklahoma. Illegal possession of prescription drugs carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.
Prescription forgery can take place by stealing prescription pads, or by changing quantities or dates on an existing prescription. It can also happen when a person, impersonating a doctor, calls in a prescription. All are illegal, and the penalties upon conviction are severe. A conviction for passing a forged prescription in Okmulgee can alter the course of your life.
Penalties for Passing a Forged Prescription
It is unlawful to knowingly acquire or obtain any controlled dangerous substance by misrepresentation, fraud, or forgery. Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 2-406
For a first conviction of passing a forged prescription in Okmulgee, you could face up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. That sentence is doubled for any subsequent convictions.
In addition, subsequent convictions are not eligible for suspended sentences, deferred sentences, or probation, effectively lengthening the time you must serve.
