(AREA)–The Thumb Narcotics Unit and federal agents from the Detroit DEA executed search warrants on several medical practices in the Thumb and Mid-Michigan areas Tuesday. The raids were part of an ongoing investigation into allegations that personnel at the various facilities were routinely prescribing controlled substances to patients that did not need them. Authorities seized cash, vehicles and other personal property that was believed to be acquired as a result of the illegal activity. The investigation was originally brought to the attention of law enforcement several months ago, after receiving complaints from several pharmacists about what they believed was the over-prescribing of controlled substances for illegitimate reasons. Authorities did not release the names of the medical practices, which were located in Caro, Saginaw and Mount Pleasant. The investigation is ongoing, and criminal charges are expected to be filed in the coming weeks.
