MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - A former psychiatrist in Alabama will not serve any time for his role in a federal pill mill case.
James Edwards, who was at one time charged with drug distribution in an 87-count indictment, pleaded guilty to one count of information for aiding or abetting the acquisition of a controlled substance by fraud. The judge accepted a plea agreement during Thursday’s hearing and sentenced him to two years of probation, WSFA-TV reported.
The judge said he was concerned about the leniency of the noncustodial sentence but agreed after a federal prosecutor explained there was insufficient evidence of medical fraud. And, prosecutors said a reduced sentence was warranted given Edwards’ limited scope as a psychiatrist, he did not prescribe opioids and he was in his 70s.
Edwards, who practiced in Auburn and Gulf Shores, will not pay fines or restitution but he must surrender all medical and processional licenses, authorities said.
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