Prescription Fraud Attorney in Fort Wayne

Defending Clients Accused of Prescription Fraud In Fort Wayne

If you have been arrested or learned that you are under investigation for prescription fraud in Fort Wayne, you are facing an issue that can affect your freedom, your record, and your career. These allegations often come with little warning, and it can be hard to know what to say or do next.

At Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C., we focus our practice on criminal defense in Indiana courts. Our attorneys bring more than 75 years of combined experience to every case, along with the insight of a former felony prosecutor who understands how the State prepares prescription fraud prosecutions.

Our firm is based here in Fort Wayne, and we regularly appear in Allen Superior Court and Allen Circuit Court. We take calls around the clock because we know these situations do not wait for business hours. When you contact us, you can expect straightforward answers and a calm explanation of your options.

Contact Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C. at (888) 912-7220 or through our contact form to schedule your free consultation. We are available 24/7 to stand by your side.

Understanding Prescription Fraud Under Indiana Code

Prescription fraud covers a broad spectrum of activities designed to acquire controlled substances through deceit. A Fort Wayne prescription fraud lawyer from our firm will analyze your case to determine if the state can actually prove the intent required under IC 35-48-4-14.

Common behaviors prosecuted as prescription fraud include:

• Doctor Shopping: Visiting multiple healthcare providers to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same or similar controlled substances without disclosing other treatments.
• Forgery or Alteration: Modifying a legitimate prescription (e.g., changing the quantity or strength) or using stolen prescription pads to create counterfeit orders.
• Deception and Subterfuge: Using a false name, address, or identity to procure a legend drug.
• Theft or Misappropriation: Stealing medication from a pharmacy, hospital, or another individual’s home.
• Fraudulent Material Information: Knowingly providing false information on an application or report required by the Legend Drug Act (IC 16-42-19-16).

Felony Levels and Potential Penalties for Prescription Fraud

In Indiana, prescription fraud is almost always charged as a felony. The grading depends on your prior record and the specific nature of the act. As your prescription fraud attorney in Fort Wayne, our goal is often to seek a reduction in these charges to protect your future.

Criminal Grading

• Level 6 Felony: This is the default charge for a first-time offense of acquiring a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, or forgery. It carries a sentencing range of 6 months to 2.5 years in prison.
• Level 5 Felony: If you have a prior conviction for prescription fraud or a related drug offense, the charge is elevated to a Level 5 felony, carrying 1 to 6 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

Collateral Consequences

Prescription fraud allegations in Indiana can lead to a range of criminal charges. Depending on the circumstances, a case may be filed as a misdemeanor or a felony, and the classification often turns on factors such as the substance involved, the amount, and whether the State claims an ongoing pattern of conduct. Possible consequences can include fines, probation, or a period of incarceration.

In addition to what happens in the courtroom, these charges can create serious collateral consequences. A conviction or even a negotiated plea can affect current and future employment, professional and medical licenses, housing opportunities, and educational options. For students, a drug-related conviction may raise concerns with school discipline or financial aid. For noncitizens, controlled substance and fraud findings can have immigration implications.

Clients who struggle with chronic pain or addiction may also worry about how a case affects access to legitimate treatment. In some situations, courts and prosecutors will consider treatment or counseling as part of a resolution. Whether that is available depends on the county, the judge, the specific charges, and the person’s history. 

Why Choose Our Prescription Fraud Defense Team in Fort Wayne

When you are deciding who to trust with a prescription fraud case, experience in criminal defense and familiarity with local courts matter. Our attorneys have spent decades handling cases in Indiana trial courts, including serious drug and fraud matters that carry significant penalties. This depth of background helps us identify patterns in how prosecutors charge cases and how judges respond to different fact situations.

Our team includes a former felony prosecutor who has worked from the other side of the courtroom. That perspective allows us to anticipate how the State may build a prescription fraud case, what evidence it is likely to rely on, and where weaknesses may exist. We use that knowledge to evaluate the strength of the allegations and to shape negotiations or trial strategy.

We are also active in the local legal community. Attorneys at our firm have served in leadership roles with the Allen County Bar Association and the Indiana State Bar Foundation. These positions reflect trust from peers and a strong working relationship with the courts that handle criminal cases.

Clients often come to us during extremely stressful times. Our approach is to tell you the truth about what you are facing, without false promises or pressure. We explain potential paths in clear language, discuss what is realistic based on the facts, and keep you informed as your case moves through the Allen County system. Feedback about our firm consistently mentions that clients felt heard, respected, and never left in the dark.

How We Defend Prescription Fraud Cases

Every prescription fraud case is different, so we begin by listening carefully to your account and examining the documents and reports that form the basis of the charges. This may include prescription records, pharmacy logs, medical charts, police reports, search warrants, and digital data. We look for inconsistencies, gaps, or explanations that the initial investigation may have overlooked.

Depending on the facts, possible defenses may include challenging whether the State can prove intent to defraud, questioning the reliability or completeness of pharmacy or medical records, examining how law enforcement obtained evidence, and raising issues about search and seizure or the chain of custody. In healthcare-related cases, we may scrutinize office procedures and record keeping to determine whether alleged irregularities actually point to criminal conduct.

Throughout the process, we focus on communication. We explain the stages of a criminal case in Allen Superior Court or Allen Circuit Court, discuss what to expect at hearings, and talk through options such as negotiation, treatment focused resolutions where available, or trial. Clients often tell us that what they valued most was that they always knew what was happening and why.

Ways our team supports clients during prescription fraud cases include:

• Taking the time to understand your background, health issues, and personal stakes
• Reviewing discovery with you so you can see what the State is relying on
• Identifying potential defenses and discussing how they may play out in court
• Preparing you for hearings and helping you know what to expect at each step
• Responding to questions and keeping you updated as your case moves forward

What To Do After An Arrest

The hours and days after an arrest or contact from investigators can significantly affect a prescription fraud case. Many people feel tempted to explain themselves to officers or to try to clear up what they see as a misunderstanding. Without legal guidance, those conversations can create statements that are later used in court.

Before you talk with police, investigators, or anyone from an insurance company about the allegations, it is wise to speak with a criminal defense lawyer. You have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel. Exercising those rights does not make you look guilty. It protects you from guessing about complex legal issues under pressure.

After a prescription fraud arrest, consider these steps:

• Avoid discussing the facts of your case with law enforcement until you have legal counsel
• Do not post about the situation on social media or message others about details
• Keep any prescriptions, medical records, or pharmacy receipts that may be relevant
• Refrain from contacting potential witnesses or other people involved in the investigation
• Contact a prescription fraud lawyer in Fort Wayne for guidance as soon as possible

Talk To Our Fort Wayne Prescription Fraud Lawyers

We understand how much is at stake, from your liberty to your career and reputation, and we work to protect your future at every stage of the case. Our firm regularly appears in Allen Superior Court and Allen Circuit Court, and we are prepared to meet with you confidentially to review what you are facing and discuss the next steps.

If you need a prescription fraud attorney in Fort Wayne for clear advice and focused defense, reach out to our team today. We are ready to listen, answer your questions, and help you move forward.

Call (888) 912-7220 or reach out online to speak with our team in confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if police want to question me?

You can respectfully tell officers that you want to speak with an attorney before answering questions. This is your right. Once you contact our firm, we can discuss whether an interview makes sense and how to handle any further communication with law enforcement.

Will I go to jail for prescription fraud?

Whether jail time is likely depends on the specific charges, your prior record, the substance involved, and how the court views the facts. Some people face probation, others face more serious exposure. We review your situation and explain realistic ranges based on similar Indiana cases.

How can your team help with my professional license?

For healthcare professionals and others with licenses, we look at both the criminal case and potential licensing issues. While licensing boards make their own decisions, we can coordinate strategy with those concerns in mind and discuss how outcomes in Allen County courts may affect your professional future.

How often will I hear from my attorney?

Our goal is that you never feel abandoned or unsure about what is happening. We keep clients updated on case developments, court dates, and negotiations, and we respond to questions as they come up. From the beginning, we explain how we will stay in contact throughout your case.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer after arrest?

It is usually best to speak with a lawyer as soon as you know you are under investigation or have been arrested. Early involvement allows us to advise you before important decisions are made and to begin protecting your rights in the Fort Wayne courts from the outset.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION