LOCAL MAN ARRESTED FOR DOCTOR SHOPPING

Murphy, NC— The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office continues in its effort to investigate individuals who are participating in doctor shopping.  During the week of March 04^th, 2012, Asif Munshi, a 23 year old Murphy North Carolina man was arrested on 10 counts of Doctor Shopping.

ASIF MUNSHI

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division became aware that Munshi was illegally obtaining prescriptions for pain medications from multiple doctors. Following up on that information Munshi was arrested and booked in the Cherokee County Detention Center. Munshi was released upon posting a $5000.00 secure bond. Munshi is scheduled to appear in Cherokee County District Court later this month.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office is aggressively pursuing individuals who are participating in doctor shopping as it has been a factor in prescription drug diversion. Prescription drug diversion is simply the deflection of prescription drugs from medical sources into the illegal market. Prescription drugs can be a lucrative business, selling on the street for as much as 10 times what they are worth retail. An 80 mg OxyContin pill, for example, costs about $6 at a pharmacy and sells for $65 to $80 on the street.20.

To report illegal activity call 828-837-1344 or you can email to crime.tips@cherokeeconty-nc.gov.