Detroit City Wire

A physician from Royal Oak has been indicted for his alleged involvement in a scheme to illegally sell and divert prescription cancer drugs. Dr. Naveed Aslam, aged 51 and residing in West Bloomfield, Michigan, faces one count of conspiracy to illegally sell or trade prescription drugs and ten counts of illegally selling or trading these drugs.

United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced the charges alongside several special agents from various federal agencies, including Mario M. Pinto from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Cheyvoryea Gibson from the FBI, Angie M. Salazar from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Ronne Malham from the FDA.

The indictment alleges that between early 2019 and August 2023, Dr. Aslam collaborated with others to purchase and resell expensive cancer medications for profit while intending to defraud and mislead customers. Using his position at Somerset Hematology and Oncology, P.C., he allegedly acquired more than $17 million worth of cancer drugs, personally profiting over $2.5 million through sales conducted via an associated company.

U.S. Attorney Ison emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of prescription drug supply lines: "As alleged, Dr. Aslam used his role as a physician to violate that integrity and divert prescription cancer drugs away from treating patients."

Mario M. Pinto highlighted the agency's dedication to ensuring compliance with laws safeguarding federal healthcare programs: "HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our Federal law enforcement partners to thoroughly investigate allegations of fraud."

Cheyvoryea Gibson stressed the responsibility physicians have when prescribing medication: "Dr. Aslam's alleged participation in this scheme not only allowed him to profit unlawfully but also posed a serious threat by potentially placing these medications into the wrong hands."

Ronne Malham underscored how diverted prescription drugs undermine FDA safeguards meant for public protection: "We remain committed to bringing to justice those who place their personal gain over the health of American consumers."

Angie M. Salazar commented on a physician’s ethical obligations: “A physician’s ethical responsibility is to their patients, not to selling cancer drugs under the table for profit.”

Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Lievense is prosecuting this case, while Assistant United States Attorney Jessica A. Nathan handles related forfeiture matters. The investigation was conducted jointly by the FBI, HHS-OIG, HSI, and FDA.

An indictment is merely an accusation; it does not serve as evidence of guilt.