Warren Doctor Unlawfully Prescribed 8,600 Oxycodone Pills: Cops

WARREN, NJ — A cardiologist from Warren pleaded guilty Monday to unlawfully prescribing more than 8,500 Oxycodone pills, said Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig.

Raymond Catania, 59, of Warren, who was a doctor specializing in cardiology and practicing in Watchung, was charged with dispensing Oxycodone outside of the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose.

From January 2016 through March 2017, Catania issued prescriptions for thousands of Oxycodone pills to one of his patients, according to documents filed in this case and statements made in court.

Catania also prescribed thousands of Oxycodone pills to that patient's wife even though the wife was not his patient, said Honig.

Catania prescribed more than 8,600 Oxycodone 30 mg pills, said Honig.

"Oxycodone – a Schedule II controlled substance – has a high potential for abuse that can lead to severe psychological and physical dependence and can result in fatal overdoses," according to authorities.

Catania faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for July 14.

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