Heather Ward, 49, of Lutcher, was arrested May 20, 2024 after stealing more than 90 Oxycodone pills from Gem Drugs in Reserve and selling the drugs on the street. The pills had an estimated street value of $800.
Ward, a former pharmacist clerk at the store, is charged with distribution of Oxycodone and prohibited acts – obtaining CDS by fraud/forgery (felony). She was released May 21, 2024 on a $50,000 bond.
On May 20, 2024, officers responded to a complaint of theft at the pharmacy. Reviewing the store’s video surveillance, officers observed Ward sign for a customer’s prescription, who she was unaffiliated with, then place the prescription in her purse and leave the store.
During an interview, Ward admitted to stealing the drugs, and that she sold the pills.
This investigation is ongoing. Anyone who suspects prescription drug fraud is asked to call 985-652-3784.