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MANILA, Philippines – An elderly Filipino couple operating in New York City’s Upper West Side was arrested on Tuesday, June 9, for the alleged illegal sale of over $77 million worth of painkillers.
According to the New York Daily News, Dr Rogelio Lucas, 77, and 80-year-old wife Lydia, who manages the clinic, are accused of selling the drugs in the black market since 2009.
“Dr Lucas is charged with being one of the city’s most prolific illegal prescribers of the black market’s favorite pill – 30 mg oxycodone,” Bridget Brennan, special prosecutor for narcotics was quoted on CBS News.
She added: “Instead of healing, doctors who routinely sign orders for unneeded narcotic drugs endanger the health and welfare of the public. Corrupt doctors who exchange prescriptions for cash have stoked the epidemic of addiction gripping our region.”
Oxycodone is an opioid pain medication used for severe pain.
Prosecutors also mentioned that in addition to their New York properties, the couple owns homes in Hawaii, Florida, and the Philippines.
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