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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 28, 2026Miami-Dade

DEA revokes nurse practitioner's prescribing authority following allegations of illegal opioid distribution

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has revoked the prescribing authority of nurse practitioner Joan Rubinger after alleging she issued hundreds of thousands of illegal opioid prescriptions. Rubinger has agreed to pay $1.4 million to settle a civil complaint with the Justice Department regarding these allegations, though she faces no criminal charges.

healthcarelaw enforcementopioid crisisprofessional sportsdrug regulation
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Why It Matters

The case highlights federal oversight of medical professionals who provide to high-profile clients and the potential for systemic abuse of prescription regulations.

Key Facts

  • The DEA revoked Joan Rubinger's authority to prescribe controlled substances last month.
  • Rubinger agreed to pay $1.4 million to settle a civil complaint with the Justice Department in March.
  • Authorities allege Rubinger violated federal drug laws 900 times.
  • Thomas Davis allegedly received over 13,000 oxycodone and Percocet pills from Rubinger between 2019 and 2024.
  • Rubinger allegedly used a digital payment app and a price list to facilitate the sale of painkillers.
  • Rubinger allegedly coached clients on how to avoid pharmacy scrutiny using encrypted messaging apps.
  • The investigation began in 2022 after Kelly Davis reported unauthorized prescriptions written in her name.
  • Rubinger has not been criminally charged for the alleged conduct.

Who's Mentioned

organizationU.S. Drug Enforcement Administration“Federal agency that investigated and revoked prescribing authority.”organizationJustice Department“Federal department that settled a civil complaint with Rubinger.”other13,000“Number of pills allegedly received by Thomas Davis.”personKelly Davis“Individual who reported Rubinger to the DEA.”personJoan Rubinger“Nurse practitioner accused of illegal opioid distribution.”personThomas Davis“Former NFL player allegedly receiving large quantities of opioids.”