The owners of a North Carolina animal hospital are facing charges of trafficking heroin or opium, according to local reports.
WAVY-TV reported that Barrett Oakes Welch, 64, and Patrice Taylor Welch, 54, turned themselves in to police on Feb. 8. Two search warrants were carried out at the hospital in Nags Head and at their home in Colington.
Search warrants at #NagsHead animal hospital lead to arrests https://t.co/8DwYKazUKK pic.twitter.com/BOTfCTBTmb
— 13News Now (@13NewsNow) February 9, 2016
The Dare County Sheriff’s Office said there were allegations of prescribing, obtaining, and the misuse of prescription medications, which prompted an initial investigation that led to search warrants.
Patrice and Barrett weren’t at the hospital when police searched the facility. Office staff cooperated in the investigation, the station reported.
Barrett was given a felony charge of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud or forgery, according to WTKR. He was released on a $15,000 secured and $10,000 unsecured bond, while Patrice was released on a $10,000 bond.
The Animal Hospital of Nags Head posted a message on its Facebook page, stating: “Our hospital is experiencing some necessary staff changes, however, we will continue to open our doors and serve the Outer Banks with the same caring, compassion and excellence in veterinary care that we have provided for 30 years.”
Our Hospital Is Experiencing Some Necessary Staff Changes, However, We Will Continue To Open Our Doors And Serve The…
Posted by Animal Hospital of Nags Head on Monday, February 8, 2016
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