In Dentists

2 Virginia dentists traded dental services for drug smuggling, DEA alleges

The Virginia Board of Dentistry suspended two dentists' licenses after they allegedly prescribed opioids to non-patients, according to WTKR.

Gary Hartman, DDS, is accused of prescribing more than 46,000 hydrocodone pills, 20,000-plus Soma pills and around 8,000 Oxycodone pills. He also allegedly prescribed Vicodin, Tramadol, sleeping pills and anxiety medications to patients without appointments or to those who did not require the narcotics.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating claims of drug misuse. The DEA claims Dr. Hartman offered dental work in exchange for patients to be drug mules.

Dr. Hartman's license was suspended in December 2018; however, investigators allege the illicit activity has been going on for years. The dental board investigation lists 22 patients who Dr. Hartman prescribed opioids for in exchange for trafficking activity.

Arnold Joseph Berger, DDS, was among the people Dr. Hartman worked with to solicit narcotics. Dr. Berger's license was suspended Feb. 1.

More articles on dentists:
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Texas university seeks to open dental school
Washington commissioner suspends dentist's license after allegedly practicing while intoxicated

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