Las Vegas, NV – A Las Vegas doctor has been sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for illegally distributing opioids. William Alvear received a 27-month sentence on Monday following his conviction last year on multiple counts of distributing a controlled substance.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Nevada, Alvear prescribed Hydrocodone to a patient in exchange for cash payments. He also unlawfully distributed Alprazolam, better known as Xanax. Both drugs carry a high potential for abuse and can lead to addiction and dependence.

“By prescribing medically unnecessary prescription medications in exchange for cash payments, the defendant put vulnerable patients at risk,” said Spencer L. Evans, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to find and investigate practitioners in the medical community who target and victimize vulnerable populations.”

This case highlights the growing concern over the illegal distribution of opioids by medical professionals. The overprescription of these powerful painkillers has fueled a nationwide epidemic of addiction and overdose deaths. Law enforcement agencies are cracking down on doctors who contribute to this crisis by prioritizing profit over patient safety.

Alvear’s sentencing sends a strong message that medical professionals who engage in the illegal distribution of opioids will face serious consequences. The FBI and other agencies remain committed to protecting the public from the dangers of prescription drug abuse.

Source: News3LV