A pharmacy employee is accused of stealing more than $200,000 worth of narcotics from the Bradenton business.
- Pharmacy employee accused of stealing more than $200,00 worth of narcotics
- Detectives say they found the narcotics in a backpack in his work locker
- Suspect admitted to the theft, said he was struggling with drug addiction
Sebastian Ochoa, 24, of Bradenton, was arrested Tuesday at Vanguard Advance Pharmacy Systems, where he is an employee.
According to the Bradenton Police Department, officers responded to the business on Manatee Avenue E and learned Ochoa was suspected of stealing a large amount of narcotics, which were scheduled to be destroyed.
Detectives said they searched Ochoa's work locker and found a backpack that contained the following:
- 91.5 grams of Oxycontin
- 174.6 grams of Hydromorphone
- 165 grams of morphine
- 25.5 milligrams of Fentanyl
- 10 milligrams of Buprenorphine
- 18 grams of Clonazepam
- 12 grams of Dronabinol
- 12 grams of Lorazepam
- 4 grams of Methylphenid
- 23.8 grams of Tramadol
Detectives say Ochoa admitted to stealing the medication after he was arrested. He reportedly said he hadn't stolen medication in the past, and said he is currently battling drug addiction.
Police say the narcotics, which were scheduled to be destroyed, were found in Ochoa's work locker. (Bradenton Police Department)
Police say the estimated street value of the stolen narcotics is over $200,000.
Ochoa is facing multiple charges of drug trafficking and drug possession.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to call 941-932-9316. To remain anonymous and be eligible for a cash reward, call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-TIPS or visit manateecrimestoppers.com.