A Royal Oak, Michigan physician is facing federal charges for his alleged role in a complex scheme to illegally sell and divert prescription cancer drugs. Dr. Naveed Aslam, 51, of West Bloomfield, is accused of participating in a multi-million dollar operation that defrauded patients and healthcare systems.
According to the indictment, Dr. Aslam conspired with others to obtain expensive cancer medications through his medical practice, Somerset Hematology and Oncology, P.C. He then allegedly sold these drugs for profit, diverting them from legitimate patients in need. The scheme reportedly ran from early 2019 through August 2023, with Dr. Aslam acquiring and selling over $17 million worth of cancer drugs, personally profiting more than $2.5 million.
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“The safety and integrity of our country’s prescription drug supply lines – particularly for cancer drugs – is an important part of our health care system,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “As alleged, Dr. Aslam used his role as a physician to violate that integrity and divert prescription cancer drugs away from treating patients. My office is committed to prosecuting medical professionals who seek to profit, rather than protect, our health care system.”
The investigation was a collaborative effort involving multiple agencies, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
“Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that medical providers follow laws designed to protect both the integrity and solvency of Federal health care programs, as well as the beneficiaries they serve,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our Federal law enforcement partners to thoroughly investigate allegations of fraud.”
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“Having the authority to prescribe medication is a privilege that comes with a profound responsibility. Physicians must safeguard against drug diversion,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Dr. Aslam’s alleged participation in this scheme not only allowed him to profit unlawfully from the sale of cancer drugs, but it also posed a serious threat by potentially placing these medications into the wrong hands. This breach of trust is inexcusable, especially considering the critical nature of the drugs involved. The FBI is unwavering in its commitment to hold medical professionals accountable for exploiting their positions for personal gain and endangering community safety.”
If convicted, Dr. Aslam faces significant penalties, including potential imprisonment and fines. It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation, and Dr. Aslam is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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