Spring Hill physician Janet Pettyjohn, age 78, and her granddaughter Shelly Gallagher, 34, of Brooksville, have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in illegal opioid distribution. U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber handed down a three-year sentence for Pettyjohn and a six-year sentence for Gallagher after both entered guilty pleas back in May. The U.S. Attorney's Office nnounced the sentencing and forfeiture of $34,132, which was determined to be proceeds from the unlawful activity.
Despite being an osteopathic doctor with the clearance to prescribe controlled substances, Pettyjohn had previously faced restrictions by Florida’s Board of Osteopathic Medicine in July 2020 due to issues with her prescribing methods. While these restrictions were later lifted in March 2021, the period in between did not deter Pettyjohn from prescribing opioids unlawfully. During this time, Gallagher, who is not a licensed medical professional, solicited patients for Pettyjohn's clinic and facilitated the procurement of controlled substances for herself and others.
In their operations between March 2021 and February 2023, there were undeniable indicators of drug abuse and diversion. According to U.S. Attorney's Office, "Pettyjohn knowingly and intentionally prescribed the controlled substances for Gallagher and others for no legitimate medical purpose in the usual course of professional practice." These actions significantly contributed to the abuse and diversion of the drugs.
A search conducted at Pettyjohn's residence in February 2024 led to the discovery of cash amounting to $34,132, confirmed as profits from her illegal activities. Subsequent to this, in May 2024, Pettyjohn forfeited her medical license along with her DEA registration. An array of law enforcement agencies including the DEA - Tampa District Office, HHS - Office of Inspector General, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, and the Opioid Fraud Abuse and Detection Unit played crucial roles in unraveling this case, orchestrated by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Pizzo.
