A defunct Orlando pharmacy and its pharmacist have agreed to pay $50,000 to the federal government to resolve allegations that they refilled more than 100 fraudulent prescriptions.
On Thursday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida announced the civil settlement with Plaza Pharmacy, LLC and pharmacist Paul Ezeobinwa. The agreement stems from a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation into the improper distribution of Schedule V drugs and multiple recordkeeping violations.
According to the settlement agreement, between December 22, 2021, and March 21, 2024, the pharmacy and Ezeobinwa allegedly failed to properly identify a total of 104 fraudulent prescriptions with 193 refills. Federal authorities stated this failure resulted in controlled substances being dispensed without valid prescriptions.
During an on-site investigation at Plaza Pharmacy on March 21, 2024, the DEA reportedly discovered “dozens” of record-keeping violations related to the Controlled Substances Act. Following the probe, the pharmacy surrendered its DEA license for cause in early May 2024, and officially ceased operations in September 2025.
“Pharmacies and pharmacists serve everyone in our communities and carry an obligation to track and properly report the dispensing of controlled substances,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “This settlement highlights our commitment to enforcing the Controlled Substances Act to protect our citizens.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar of the Tampa Field Division echoed that sentiment, noting that diversion investigators will continue to pursue those who “abuse the system and poison our communities.”
In a press release, the U.S. Attorney’s Office stated that the claims resolved by this settlement are “allegations only,” and there has been no official determination of liability.