Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia
In a recent legal development, the Justice Department has filed a civil complaint against Walgreens Boots Alliance and its subsidiaries, alleging that the pharmacy chain dispensed millions of unlawful prescriptions in violation of federal laws. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, accuses Walgreens of violating both the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and the False Claims Act (FCA).
"This lawsuit seeks to hold Walgreens accountable for the many years that it failed to meet its obligations when dispensing dangerous opioids and other drugs," stated Brian M. Boynton, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General. He emphasized that Walgreens pharmacists allegedly filled prescriptions with "clear red flags" indicating potential unlawfulness.
The government's complaint claims that from August 2012 onwards, Walgreens knowingly filled prescriptions lacking legitimate medical purposes. These included excessive opioid quantities and early refills. It is also alleged that Walgreens ignored warnings from its own pharmacists and internal data about these practices.
Maya D. Song, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, remarked on their commitment to addressing corporate accountability amid the opioid crisis: "We will continue to work with colleagues across the nation to confront these issues."
If found liable, Walgreens could face significant penalties under both acts mentioned in the lawsuit. Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual highlighted the importance of adhering to laws designed to protect communities from opioid dangers.
Several U.S. Attorneys expressed similar sentiments regarding Walgreens' alleged failures in ensuring prescription legitimacy and responsibility. DEA Principal Deputy Administrator George Papadopoulos noted that "Walgreens placed the public in danger by disregarding their responsibility."
The case includes input from four whistleblowers who previously worked at various Walgreens locations across America under qui tam provisions of FCA.
Assistant Director Amy DeLine leads representation for this matter along with several other officials from different districts and divisions within Justice Department branches.
The Justice Department remains focused on tackling health care fraud as part of broader efforts against those contributing towards ongoing crises like opioids through illegal activities or negligence thereof.