Michigan neurologist arrested in major pill trafficking operation

A Michigan neurologist is accused of illegally prescribing powerful painkillers, contributing to the overdose crisis.

A Michigan neurologist has been arrested in connection with a pill trafficking operation across Michigan and Ohio.

On September 24, Taylor police, along with Michigan State Police and the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), conducted raids at the doctor’s neurology clinic on Telegraph Road in Taylor and his mansion in West Bloomfield.

Dr. Ram S. Garg, a graduate of JLN Medical College, has been practicing since 1970, specializing in treating neurodegenerative disorders, epilepsy, and headaches. However, authorities allege that he has been illegally prescribing powerful painkillers, such as hydrocodone, oxycodone, and Norco, to patients without legitimate medical reasons.

"It's huge. Just getting him off the street is essentially like taking a drug dealer off the street." -Lead Detective Phil Wengrowski

The probe into Dr. Garg began several years ago when a pharmacy near the Michigan-Ohio border flagged him for prescribing an excessive number of controlled substances. Investigators found that patients traveled from across the Midwest to obtain prescriptions from his clinic. "We received a tip... when the doctor was actually cut off at a pharmacy... for the amount of controlled substances being filled," Wengrowski explained.

Authorities further allege that the doctor falsified medical records and billing. "He has been... falsifying patient files, medical billing records, billing for tests and exams that were never actually conducted," Wengrowski added.

Taylor Police Chief John Blair expressed concern over the impact of the doctor's practices, noting the rise in overdose deaths linked to the prescribed pills. Blair told FOX 2, "Nearly on a daily basis, we're responding to overdoses. We've had over 50 cases this year in overdose deaths."

In addition to the clinic raid, Dr. Garg's 20,000-square-foot mansion in West Bloomfield was also searched, where one woman surrendered to authorities. Investigators discovered unexpected findings, including a bedroom set up inside the clinic. Chief Blair remarked, "Who knows how deep this runs? Who knows if there are other clinics involved or other doctors?"

While some patients were taken aback by the allegations, others were not. Former patient Autum Allen shared with 7 News Detroit, "Upon the first meeting, he didn’t really examine me... He just kind of went off what I said and automatically prescribed me Topamax." Allen mentioned that the doctor attempted to pressure her into taking medication she didn't want by creating a nickname for it. Additionally, she said the doctor tried to prescribe medication to her 7-year-old daughter, who wasn't even a patient.

The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to uncover the full extent of Dr. Garg’s alleged criminal activities.