In Decatur, a former oncologist has admitted to illegally prescribing opioids to individuals who were not under his care, subsequently passing the medications to women with whom he had personal relationships. Sammy Fuad Becdach, aged 57, appeared before U.S. District Judge Madeline H. Haikala on Wednesday, where he entered a guilty plea on two counts related to the unauthorized distribution and dispensing of controlled substances.
A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 13, during which the court will determine the appropriate consequences for Becdach’s actions. The law stipulates that the maximum penalties for such drug distribution offenses can reach up to $1 million in fines and a prison sentence of up to 20 years.