Drug Possession and Sales

In Arizona, it is evident that even the most unlikely people partake in criminal activities when they think no one is looking. Cathy Padilla, an Arizona resident and volunteer for Gilbert's biggest non-profit organization, now faces more than 100 felony charges for her alleged involvement in a prescription drug ring that police say defrauded insurance companies by at least $10,000.

Padilla, 47, is one of seven Valley residents accused of selling drugs obtained through fake prescriptions from a Mesa medical clinic. Before her arrest, Padilla had been in charge of Gilbert Promotional Corp an organization that raises money for a variety of charities.

Padilla had been under investigation by police for more than a year before being arrested. The investigation revealed Padilla who worked as a manager at Mesa Pain Management Center in Mesa, allegedly called in prescriptions for herself, her husband and son. Police discovered the drug ring after a pharmacy called a nurse at the clinic to verify a prescription. When it turned out to be fake, the nurse called police.

Records show Padilla received about 53 fake prescriptions for Norco, a brand name for the pain reliever hydrocodone, in the past 12 months. According to an article published by the Arizona Republic, Padilla sold each prescription for $100. Police also discovered that Padilla had stolen blank prescription pads and also sold them for cash.

In Arizona the distribution of narcotics is considered a Felony. If you have recently been arrested for drug possession or possession for sale in Phoenix, Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, Ahwatukee, or Scottsdale it is imperative to find an experienced attorney today. Consulting a Phoenix criminal defense lawyer at Beauchamp Law Office, P.C. can help defend your innocence and possibly avoid a drug crime conviction on your record.