The criminal diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals can be a complex and confusing issue for law enforcement. These otherwise legally prescribed controlled substances can become illegal when diverted from the standard practice of medicine. The diversion of controlled pharmaceutical opioids has directly led to the current opioid crisis we are experiencing in the United States. This class will help to guide law enforcement investigators as they address these complex cases.

These unique investigations require the investigator to identify “red flags” and develop sources of information to determine if the suspected activity is illegal. The investigative techniques employed are critical to the outcome of the investigation. Finally, an effective prosecution strategy will need to be implemented.

This live, interactive four (4) hour webinar will provide an in-depth look at the issues, techniques, resources and strategies involved in any investigation involving the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals. The class will culminate with a case study of an investigation which resulted in a life sentence for the physician and a more than twelve-year sentence for the pharmacist.

Todd Hixson served 23 years with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration before retiring in May 2019. Todd served in a variety of assignments in his DEA career including an assignment as a liaison to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police at the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, Canada. From 2014 to 2019 Todd served as the Group Supervisor for the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad (TDS) in Kansas City. During this time, Todd lead a team of Special Agents, Task Force Officers, and Diversion Investigators who targeted physicians, pharmacists and others who were illegally diverting controlled pharmaceuticals. Todd currently works in investigations for the Miami County (KS) Sheriffs Office, and was a Police Officer in Carrollton TX for four years prior to his DEA career.