South MS company will pay U.S. government $175,000 to resolve drug enforcement case
Pharmaceutical Trade Services Inc., which does business as Durbin USA, has agreed to pay the United States government $175,00 to resolve allegations that it kept improper records over a seven-year period, Acting United States Attorney Darren LaMarca announced Friday.
The company’s corporate office and warehouse are located at Gulf Tech Drive in Ocean Springs. Its website says it provides products and services to customers in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia/Oceania, Africa and South America.
The allegations were based on the results from multiple Drug Enforcement Administration audits of the Ocean Springs facility, according to a press release.
The government alleged the company violated the Controlled Substances Act by negligently failing to keep accurate records and inventories associated with Schedule II-IV narcotics the company imported, distributed and exported from 2013 to 2020.
These type of drugs have high potential for abuse and dependence, such as methadone, oxycodone and fentanyl.
The company also entered into a three-year agreement with the DEA that requires additional responsibilities regarding the handling of controlled substances beyond what is required by applicable laws and regulations.
The payment settles civil charges against the company without determination or admission of civil or criminal liability.
“This settlement demonstrates our office’s continued commitment to combating the opioid epidemic on all fronts,” LaMarca said. “Part of our strategy is making sure that registered opioid handlers keep accurate records of these highly addictive and potentially dangerous drugs. All individuals and facilities, large or small, licensed to handle controlled substances are responsible for maintaining accurate records, and all will be held accountable for any failures.”
