A doctor who practiced in Staten Island has pleaded guilty to soliciting sex for opioid prescriptions, Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.
Joseph Santiamo, 65, of Staten Island, New York, pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, a controlled dangerous substance.
“This defendant knowingly prescribed for his patients dangerous quantities of oxycodone, and even more egregiously, solicited sexual favors from certain patients who were struggling with substance abuse in exchange for writing them additional opioid prescriptions,” Carpenito said. “Many of these patients were dealing with pain and addiction, and instead of getting help from their doctor, they were drawn deeper into the cycle of drug abuse. His admission of guilt ensures that he will be appropriately punished for this behavior.”
Santiamo ran a medical practice in Staten Island focused on internal medicine and geriatric care. There were “many” cases where he prescribed oxycodone without legitimate medical purpose, especially in the large quantities that he prescribed.
Despite specializing in geriatric care, he had a number of patients younger than 40 who he solicited sexual favors from in exchange for these prescriptions. These actions took place between January 1, 2012 and May 3, 2018. In some cases, police said he continued to prescribe the drugs even though the patients were clearly addicted.
“This defendant not only violated his oath to help people, he took advantage of them when they were most vulnerable for his own selfish needs,” Susan A. Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New Jersey Division, said. “The only difference between him and a person who deals drugs on the street is the white lab coat he wears. The men and women of the DEA are always committed to pursue those who choose to violate the law.”
The count of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 12, 2021.
