Obtaining a controlled dangerous substance by forgery is most often associated with prescription drugs. This crime can occur in a number of different ways, but the most common is to steal a prescription pad and forge a doctor’s signature or to obtain a prescription by other illegal means. Prescription forgery in Oklahoma is a serious crime.
Prescription Forgery Defined
Oklahoma classifies all controlled dangerous substances (drugs), including prescription medications, according to “Schedules” based upon the level of addictive risk weighed against their medical benefit. Prescription pain medications like Oxycontin, Percocet, and Vicodin, are classified as Schedule II and Scheduled III substances. Okla. Stat. tit. 63 §§ 2-204 et seq.
Legally, you must have a valid prescription for these medications. Being in possession of any prescription medication without a valid prescription is against the law in Oklahoma. Laws have recently changed to make mere possession of drugs a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to a year in jail, a $1,000 fine, and a $100 trauma care fund fee. However, forging prescriptions and distributing or selling drugs are still felony crimes in Oklahoma.
More About Obtaining a Controlled Dangerous Substance by Forgery
Oklahoma law makes it illegal to alter, add information to, or change an existing prescription. This includes changing the pill amount or changing the name of the prescription recipient. Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 2-407
It is also illegal to try to obtain medications by: fraud, deceit, or misrepresentation; concealment of a material fact; using a false name or giving a false address; or failing to disclose that you have obtained this same drug within 30 days from another practitioner.
A first-time offender faces up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. A subsequent offense raises the penalty to between 4 and 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $20,000, or both.
Prescription forgery is always treated as a felony.
If you or a loved one are facing charges for obtaining a controlled dangerous substance by forgery, it is critical that you get the help you need. Do not delay; call for help today.
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