Office of the District Attorney
P. David Soares
Albany County Judicial Building
Albany , New York 12207
(518) 487-5460
(518) 487-5093 – fax

DA Soares Applauds Online Pharmacy Legislation

ALBANY, NY –  In response to the Senate passing the “Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act of 2008” earlier this month, District Attorney P. David Soares made the following statement:

“I congratulate the family of Ryan Haight and the Senate for their determination in regulating online pharmacies. This bill clarifies and codifies what has always been the law by reinforcing that an online pharmacy must posses a ‘valid prescription’ after an in person meeting with a licensed physician to dispense any controlled substance. If passed by the House, prosecuting these rogue businesses will be much easier for federal law enforcement agencies.

“In conjunction with the New York State Health Department, my Office began an investigation into an illegal distribution ring of online pharmacies in 2005. To date, “Operation Which Doctor’ has resulted in 14 guilty pleas and more than $1 million dollars in restitution for the illegal distribution of steroids and other controlled substances to the residents of Albany County. We will continue to focus our efforts on prosecuting the remaining defendants in our case and commend the federal government for addressing such an important issue.”