Elaine Sharp, MD, 72, of Pensacola Beach, Florida, has been arrested on charges of murder, manslaughter, and racketeering following a multiyear investigation into an illegal drug ring operating in Northwest Florida. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) led the investigation, which began in February 2021 after receiving complaints from local pharmacists about large quantities of oxycodone being prescribed.

According to the FDLE, Dr. Sharp allegedly ran a pill mill out of her Gulf Breeze physician's office, and several patients overdosed after taking drugs prescribed by Dr. Sharp. The investigation, assisted by Escambia and Santa Rosa county sheriff's offices and the Drug Enforcement Administration, resulted in the arrest of Dr. Sharp and 10 other individuals. One suspect remains at large. Most suspects were prescribed 120 oxycodone pills per month without legitimate medical need.

FDLE Pensacola Special Agent in Charge Chris Williams stated, "Shutting down this pill mill unquestionably made our community safer.  We know this drug ring, led by Dr. Elaine Sharp, was a major contributor of illegal drugs flowing into our neighborhoods and even attracting drug dealers from throughout the Southeast looking for an easy way to obtain these drugs."

The case will be prosecuted by the State Attorney's Office, First Judicial Circuit.

Other arrested individuals face charges including conspiracy to commit racketeering, conspiracy-trafficking oxycodone, and conspiracy to obtain controlled substances not medically necessary. One suspect was charged with healthcare kickback.

The FDLE's action highlights the ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and the role of healthcare providers in contributing to the crisis. This case underscores the importance of proper prescribing practices and the severe consequences of operating pill mills.