Devin Anthony Magarian, a 21-year-old from Kissimmee, Florida, has been arrested in New York City for his alleged role as a ringleader in a multistate conspiracy involving the repeated hacking of an online prescription website used by doctors. The scheme involved issuing tens of thousands of fraudulent prescriptions for narcotics, such as oxycodone and promethazine with codeine. The operation, which allegedly netted between $75,000 and $200,000 per month, allowed Magarian and his associates to lead an extravagant lifestyle. The scheme targeted pharmacies in various states, including New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Florida, Texas, Georgia, and the Carolinas.
The investigation began in February 2023 when a 22-year-old defendant was arrested outside a Great Neck pharmacy, having picked up two prescriptions not in his name. Subsequent collaboration with the pharmacist, who reported unusual activity, led to the discovery of the scheme. Magarian allegedly compromised the cell phones of doctors nationwide every four weeks, gaining access to their e-prescription credentials. Referred to as a “modern day piracy” by DEA Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, the case exposes a sophisticated online illicit drug sales operation. Magarian allegedly ran a Telegram channel to advertise the scheme, and his associates, known as “runners,” picked up prescriptions in multiple states.
Magarian has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including criminal sale of a controlled substance and criminal diversion of prescription medication. His attorney argues a rush to judgment and anticipates his client’s exoneration. The alleged cybercrime kingpin was arrested in New York City while attempting to pick up compensation for 630 oxycodone pills. Authorities have emphasized the need for federal measures to counteract fraud in the e-prescribing system. The investigation is ongoing, and more arrests are anticipated, according to Nassau District Attorney Anne Donnelly.
