Massachusetts Nurse Charged for Tampering with Oxycodone Now Faces 10 Years

BREAKING: A 65-year-old nurse in Massachusetts faces serious charges after allegedly tampering with oxycodone intended for a vulnerable dementia patient. Lori Robertson was arrested this week by federal authorities, according to a statement from the Massachusetts U.S. Attorney’s office.

The indictment details that Robertson, who worked at a long-term care facility in Amesbury, is accused of replacing oxycodone with a household cleaner, putting patients at grave risk. This alarming incident reportedly occurred on March 31, 2023, when Robertson was responsible for caring for a non-verbal hospice patient who required the medication.

The indictment asserts that Robertson used a syringe to extract the oxycodone and then substituted it with a dangerous cleaner, raising concerns about her reckless disregard for patient safety. Authorities emphasize the seriousness of the situation, stating that such actions could lead to death or bodily injury.

Robertson is charged with one count of tampering with a consumer product, a crime that could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, along with a fine of up to $250,000. She appeared before Judge Paul Levenson in federal court on Friday, where she pleaded not guilty.

Despite the severity of the charges, federal prosecutors did not request detention, agreeing to release conditions that prohibit Robertson from using drugs or alcohol, contacting the alleged victim, or engaging in any employment that provides access to prescription medications.

An initial status conference has been scheduled for November 24, 2023, where further developments in this shocking case will be discussed. The situation raises urgent concerns about patient safety in healthcare facilities, especially for those who are most vulnerable.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.