HARRISBURG, PA — A Luzerne County medical professional finds himself at the center of serious allegations involving the misuse of potent painkillers. Dr. Richard Lemaster Hubbell, a 60-year-old anesthesiologist, has been charged with a series of crimes related to the diversion of fentanyl and Dilaudid, two highly controlled substances known for their powerful analgesic properties.
Attorney General Michelle Henry announced this week that Hubbell faces 32 felony counts of acquiring or obtaining possession of a controlled substance, along with related misdemeanors. The charges follow an investigation into his practices while employed at medical facilities in Berks and Columbia counties, specifically the Pennsylvania Eye and Ear Surgical Center and Berwick Hospital.
During his arraignment on Thursday at a district court, bail was set at $150,000 unsecured, coupled with the requirement for electronic monitoring.
The allegations against Dr. Hubbell paint a troubling picture of trust betrayed. According to Attorney General Henry, “This defendant took an oath to protect his patients and he abused his position of power to divert hundreds and hundreds of doses of potentially lethal substances.” She emphasized that no level of authority justifies breaking the law, underscoring her office’s commitment to uphold public safety and enforce legal standards without bias.
The investigation into Hubbell’s activities gained momentum following a search of his home on Long Run Road in Drums, where agents from the Office of Attorney General reportedly discovered numerous vials and syringes, both used and unused, containing the opioids in question.
Further details from the investigation suggest that Hubbell engaged in falsifying records to indicate that these substances were administered to patients, some of whom, it appears, did not require such treatment. This alleged manipulation not only facilitated the diversion of the drugs but also raised serious concerns about patient care and safety protocols within the medical establishments involved.
Senior Deputy Attorney General Michelle Hardik is set to prosecute the case, which now moves forward under the scrutiny of the judicial system. It is important to remember that the charges against Dr. Hubbell are accusations at this stage. Like all defendants, he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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