DEA investigators approach their duties with utmost seriousness. Having been part of their ranks, we understand their unwavering commitment. When it comes to controlled-substance laws and regulations, they interpret them literally and expect strict compliance. Any deviation can have significant repercussions such as:

• Civil and Criminal Consequences:
  Civil and Criminal Consequences:
  The stakes are high. Federal criminal law explicitly states that a “knowing failure” to maintain required records can lead to:
  Up to one year in prison.
  A hefty $100,000 fine.
  Even a “negligent failure”—a less intentional violation—constitutes a civil offense.
  Practitioners may face fines ranging from $15,876.00 to $68,4226.00 per occurrence.
  These fines can accumulate rapidly if multiple violations occur.
  
  Administrative Consequences:
• DEA’s Authority and “Order to Show Cause”:
  The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) wields significant authority in enforcing controlled-substance regulations.
  Their power extends to initiating an “order to show cause” process.
  This legal procedure serves as a formal notice to a registrant (such as a healthcare practitioner or pharmacy) that their controlled-substance registration is under scrutiny.
  If the DEA identifies serious violations or patterns of non-compliance, they can move to revoke the registration altogether.
  The revocation of a controlled-substance registration has severe implications, affecting a practitioner’s ability to prescribe, dispense, or handle controlled substances.