ALBANY, NEW YORK – Vivian Letizia, age 64, of Stone Ridge, New York, was sentenced today to one year of probation for acquiring and obtaining a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, deception or subterfuge. Letizia was also ordered to undergo drug treatment and pay a $5,000 fine.
Letizia has also paid the United States $100,000 to resolve her civil liability for the same conduct.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division.
Letizia was a dentist in Woodstock and authorized to prescribe controlled substances. Letizia admitted that on several occasions in 2019 and 2020, she sent electronic prescriptions for oxycodone to various pharmacies in her patients’ names. But these oxycodone prescriptions were not intended for the patients, as Letizia picked up the oxycodone and consumed it herself. Letizia also ordered oxycodone to her dental practice for her own consumption. As part of resolving this case, Letizia surrendered her DEA registration and is prohibited from re-applying for a new one. She also agreed to surrender her New York State medical license.
This case was investigated by the New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement, and DEA Albany District Office’s Diversion Group and Tactical Diversion Squad.
The criminal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda. The civil case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Moran.