Former Jackson, Tennessee, nurse practitioner Jeff Young is set to go to trial in Federal court in Memphis on March 27.
Young has remained in jail awaiting trial since his indictment in April 2019. His arrest and five others in Jackson were part of a multi-state investigation conducted by the Department of Justice Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid Strike Force.
Among other charges, the prosecution alleges Young prescribed over 1.4 million addictive pills and 1,500 fentanyl patches over three years. In some instances, the indictment says Young did not properly examine patients (including two undercover officers) before providing prescriptions.
Young named himself the “Rock Doc” when he was starring in his reality podcast series shown on YouTube. His behavior was described as “untraditional” for healthcare professionals and briefly brought the national media (www.theatlantic.com) to cover his case.
A quick internet search for the “Rock Doc” produces a lot of information, including his YouTube videos. Facebook comments cover the entire spectrum. Some say he’s great, and some say he should be locked up. Almost everyone who knows him has a strong opinion about the situation.
Witness credibility may become an issue if witnesses are used who were substance abusers at the time or are testifying in exchange for leniency on some charge the witness may be fighting.
The judgment and discretion of the provider may be a defense argument.
A jury of good people in court to hear every word of testimony and see every shred of evidence will decide the case. Each of them swore at the beginning of the trial to be fair and impartial. After deliberating all the issues, the jury will return what they believe is the best possible verdict.
