by Venango County, Pennsylvania — A western Pennsylvania surgeon is facing multiple criminal charges after investigators say he used patient information to illegally prescribe and obtain oxycodone, allegedly supplying the powerful painkiller to a romantic partner.
The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General announced Thursday that Justin Adibi, 35, of Oil City, was arrested following an investigation into improper prescription practices tied to his work at two UPMC hospitals in Venango County.
Charges filed against the surgeon
According to prosecutors, Adibi has been charged with several offenses, including possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, identity theft, and theft by unlawful taking.
Officials say the alleged activity occurred in late September 2024, while Adibi was employed as a surgeon at UPMC facilities in the region.
Allegations involve misuse of patient records
Investigators allege Adibi accessed patient medical files and used that information to electronically transmit oxycodone prescriptions to local pharmacies. The prescriptions were reportedly written under the names of two patients, but authorities say the medication was not intended for them.
Instead, investigators claim Adibi personally picked up the prescriptions and provided the oxycodone to his then-significant other, described by authorities as his paramour.
Attorney general condemns breach of trust
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday said the case represents a serious violation of the trust placed in medical professionals.
“Patients trust their doctors with deeply personal information and to do right by them,” Sunday said in a statement. “In this case, the defendant took advantage of having access to patient information to illegally supply his paramour with doses of a potent and addictive substance.”
Officials emphasized that controlled substances like oxycodone are tightly regulated due to their high risk of addiction and abuse.
Hospital system cooperated with investigation
The attorney general’s office confirmed that UPMC cooperated fully with the investigation. Authorities did not specify whether the affected patients were harmed or aware their identities were allegedly misused, but said the case was identified through investigative review of prescription activity.
Read Also: Woman Arrested After Razor Blades Found Hidden Inside Bread at Mississippi Walmart Stores
No additional suspects have been named at this time.
Bail set, court date scheduled
Court records show Adibi’s bail has been set at $50,000. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 21, where a judge will determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
As with all criminal cases, Adibi is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Broader implications for prescription oversight
The case underscores ongoing efforts by state authorities to monitor prescription drug use and prevent fraud and diversion involving opioids. Investigators say misuse of prescribing authority not only violates the law but also contributes to broader public health risks.
State officials encourage anyone who suspects prescription fraud or misuse to report concerns through appropriate legal channels.
What safeguards do you think should be strengthened to prevent prescription drug abuse in healthcare settings? Share your thoughts in the comments.
