A Brick, New Jersey, healthcare worker's employer alleged the woman was stealing narcotics from her workplace. Lauren Scholz was soon arrested and charged with various drug offenses, including theft and possession of various drugs and drug paraphernalia.

If you're a New Jersey healthcare worker accused of stealing drugs, narcotics, or other controlled substances, you not only face potential criminal charges, but your professional license or other credentials could be in jeopardy as well. Having a criminal defense lawyer with years of experience handling criminal drug charges and professional license defense matters can make all the difference. Call the Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686, or use the online contact form.

An Anonymous Tip

On January 25, law enforcement received an anonymous tip that a female healthcare worker from the Vascular Institute at Atlantic Medical Imaging was stealing narcotics from her job.

The next day, police visited the medical facility and met with management. During their investigation, the police found that 100 vials containing fentanyl and 40 syringes containing Dilaudid (the brand name of hydromorphone) were missing.

Charged and Arrested

Scholz was arrested shortly thereafter and, according to Brick Township Police, charged with theft and possession of fentanyl, hydromorphone, cocaine, and drug paraphernalia.

While in custody, Scholz admitted to stealing the narcotics from work. She was also found to have cocaine and other drug paraphernalia with her. She was released on a summons pending a future court hearing.

Be Careful Talking to the Police When Arrested

After her arrest, Scholz admitted to stealing the narcotics from her place of employment. The news reports don't make it clear when she made the admission or whether she had an attorney when she made it. However, it seems like she may have confessed before talking to a lawyer first.

If this happened, it was likely a mistake because it limits her legal options. For example, getting an advantageous plea bargain is now that much harder to obtain. It may not even be possible.

New Jersey Drug Charges Require Legal Representation

Getting charged with one or more drug offenses can risk your professional career. What's even worse is admitting to something that may not have happened or can't be proven. If the charges stem from your job, you might also have to deal with a license or regulatory board's disciplinary proceedings against you. You're in danger of losing not just your freedom but also your livelihood.

The Lento Law Firm has Professional License and Criminal Defense Teams that can defend you on legal and administrative fronts, even if you admitted to what allegedly happened. Don't hesitate to contact us through our online contact form or call us at 888-535-3686. Tell us about your case and we will work to get you through the legal and administrative process and obtain the best outcome possible.