West Harrison Man Charged With Illegally Dispensing Prescription Drugs

A West Harrison man surrendered to the United States District Court in White Plains today in connection with a conspiracy to dispense prescription drugs without valid prescription.

An indictment filed yesterday alleges that Scott Burko, a 47-year-old pharmacist, worked for a company that operated pharmacies in Rockland, Orange, Dutchess and Westchester Counties. It continues to say that from 2003 - 2006 Burko sold prescription drugs after sale in interstate commerce.

Burko was also charged with dispensing Prednisone, a steriod, from April 2005 to March 2006 on 81 different occasions. He was charged with dispensing the Prednisone in 10 milligram tablets in the names of fictitious patients. Each instance was charged separately and carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison.

The initial charge, for conspiracy, carries a maximum charge of 5 years in prison with a maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the gross pecuniary loss or gain derived from the offense, according to the indictment.

The case has been assigned to United States District Court and Burko was released pending bail conditions.