Former Pediatrician Sentenced in Shocking Prescription-for-Sex Scheme
A former St. Louis County pediatrician, Craig Spiegel, 70, was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Tuesday for a disturbing scheme involving the exchange of prescription drugs for sexual favors, nude photos, and cash. The case, spanning from at least 2014 through May 2023, highlights a severe breach of trust and exploitation of vulnerable patients.
Decade of Deception: How the Scheme Unraveled
Investigators revealed that Spiegel knowingly prescribed opioids, Adderall, and other controlled substances with no legitimate medical reason, often to women he had previously treated as children. He pressured victims into sending him explicit photographs or engaging in sexual acts at his Bridgeton, Missouri office or their homes. The indictment detailed how Spiegel exploited his position of authority and medical expertise for personal gain.
The scheme extended to financial manipulation, with Spiegel prescribing drugs under the names of co-conspirator April Bingham’s ex-husband, mother, and friends to fraudulently obtain insurance benefits. Bingham, who introduced other women to Spiegel, was previously sentenced to 21 months in prison in 2024.
The Human Cost: Victim Impact and a Tragic Loss
The courtroom heard harrowing victim impact statements, including those from the family of N.L., a patient who died from an overdose in 2022 while under Spiegel’s care. The victim’s mother stated her daughter “died slowly every day under Spiegel’s care,” and her daughter described Spiegel as manipulative and abusive.
Spiegel admitted to continuing the practice even after becoming aware of his patients’ struggles with substance use disorders, demonstrating a callous disregard for their well-being.
Financial Ramifications and Legal Accountability
Spiegel’s illegal activities resulted in losses totaling $114,480 to Medicare, Missouri Medicaid, and Illinois Medicaid programs. He also pleaded guilty to lying under oath in a prior court hearing, falsely accusing Bridgeton police of misconduct in an attempt to suppress evidence.
Despite his attorney’s plea for a 12-year sentence and five years of home confinement, citing remorse and health issues, Judge John A. Ross delivered a 20-year prison sentence, emphasizing the “horrendous breach of trust” and the profound harm Spiegel inflicted on his victims.
What This Case Reveals About Prescription Drug Abuse and Exploitation
This case underscores the critical need for vigilance in addressing prescription drug abuse and the potential for exploitation within the healthcare system. The fact that Spiegel targeted former patients, and those struggling with addiction, highlights a particularly egregious abuse of power.
The Bridgeton Police Department encourages anyone with information related to this case to contact them at 314-373-3876 or [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
- What charges was Craig Spiegel convicted of? Spiegel pleaded guilty to prescribing pain pills and other controlled substances in exchange for sex acts, nude photos, or cash, as well as lying under oath.
- How long was Craig Spiegel sentenced to? Spiegel was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
- Were any other individuals involved in the scheme? April Bingham, who introduced Spiegel to other individuals, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 21 months in prison.
- What programs suffered financial losses as a result of Spiegel’s actions? Medicare, Missouri Medicaid, and Illinois Medicaid programs suffered losses totaling $114,480.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by Dr. Spiegel’s actions, contact HHS-OIG at 800-447-8477.
