Dr. Jonathan S. Clark, a physician based in Poteau, Oklahoma, has agreed to pay $105,000 to resolve allegations that he violated the Controlled Substances Act. The announcement was made by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
According to federal authorities, Dr. Clark was alleged to have ordered controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice. He also reportedly stored and dispensed these substances at an unregistered location and did not keep records with the required details about when substances were received or dispensed.
The settlement followed an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Diversion Unit, which found issues related to improper storage and recordkeeping of controlled substances.
“The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Tulsa Residence Office, works tirelessly to ensure doctors in our communities operate in a manner that is in the public’s best interest. When this standard is violated, those doctors will be held accountable, as is the case with Dr. Jonathan Clark,” said DEA Dallas Special Agent in Charge Joseph B. Tucker, who oversees operations in Oklahoma. “We hope this stands as a reminder of the DEA’s commitment to prevent, detect, investigate and hold accountable those doctors who choose to violate the Controlled Substances Act.”
United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson commented on law enforcement efforts: “I commend the DEA Diversion Unit for their relentless efforts to ensure physician compliance to the law. Communities pay a high price when physicians violate laws governing dangerous and addictive substances. Through settlements like this one, the U.S. Attorney’s Office can reduce the risks to patient safety and public health posed by breaches of the Controlled Substance Act.”
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected violations involving controlled substances through anonymous tips submitted online via the DEA Tip Line. Concerns about prescription drug abuse or diversion may also be reported through the RX Abuse Online Reporting system.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua M. Mitts represented the United States in this matter.
Officials clarified that these are only allegations; there has been no determination of liability against Dr. Clark.
