(INDIANAPOLIS) – Two Indianapolis women are facing federal charges after police say they broke into a restricted medication storage area and stole several items within.
The United States Attorney’s Office of the Southern District says April Hayworth and Christiana Smith broke into a restricted medication storage area at the Central Indiana Cancer Center and stole thirty carpujets or pre-filled syringes of morphine, a schedule II controlled substance.
“During this COVID19 pandemic, it is vitally important to protect our medical system and the supplies that are needed to treat patients and protect our medical workers,” said United States Attorney Josh Minkler. “These individuals were trying to make some quick money at the cost of endangering innocent lives. This conduct will not be tolerated during a pandemic or ever.
Agents allege the women opened multiple cabinets, removing the missing controlled substances, and also stealing personal protective equipment and other medical supplies from the hospital, including 7 boxes of isolation masks; 50 tubs of Sani-wipes; 10 containers of soap; 20 bottles of hand sanitizer; 8 bottles of air deodorizer; and 6 tubs of bleach wipes.
Investigators say April was a member of the cleaning crew at the hospital. They say the two women planned on selling the morphine.
“It is absolutely shameful with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, that Ms. Hayworth and Ms. Smith would burglarize the Central Indiana Cancer Centers, and steal a significant amount of morphine and personal protective equipment,” said Michael Gannon, DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge. “The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, United States Attorney’s Office, Indiana University Health Care, and the cleaning company are to be commended for their assistance in holding Ms. Hayworth and Ms. Smith accountable for their misconduct.”
If convicted on all counts, the two face up to 70 years in prison and fines of up to $2.5 million.
