A New Jersey orthopaedic surgeon admitted on June 11, 2024, to multiple counts of illegally prescribing pain medication to his patients, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Evangelos Megariotis, 72, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti in Newark federal court to seven counts of a 34-count indictment. The charges involve the unlawful distribution of controlled substances, specifically the dispensing of Oxycodone, Oxycontin, and Oxycodone-Acetaminophen to five patients outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.
Megariotis, who practiced in Clifton, New Jersey, issued these prescriptions from March 2017 through November 2017. The substances involved – all Schedule II controlled substances – have a high potential for abuse, leading to severe psychological and physical dependence, and potentially fatal overdoses.
Megariotis faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 15, 2024.
Learn more about this case involving the unlawful distribution of controlled substances here.
