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Former Doctor Sentenced to 40 Years for Opioid Overdoses

9/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Joel Smithers, a former Martinsville doctor, was sentenced to 40 years for illegally prescribing opioids.
His prescriptions are linked to 26 overdose deaths since 2007.
Smithers' practice earned over $700,000, with patients often receiving prescriptions without consultations.
The region continues to face addiction challenges, prompting the establishment of over 15 treatment centers.

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Story summary

Joel Smithers, a former Martinsville doctor, was sentenced to 40 years for illegally prescribing opioids.
His prescriptions are linked to 26 overdose deaths since 2007.
Smithers' practice earned over $700,000, with patients often receiving prescriptions without consultations.
The region continues to face addiction challenges, prompting the establishment of over 15 treatment centers.