Richardson anesthesiologist Raynaldo Rivera Ortiz Jr. goes on trial today, accused of injecting poison into IV bags in 2021. resulting in at least one death and multiple cardiac emergencies.
According to court documents, at least 11 people suffered cardiac incidents during medical procedures and one doctor died when she took an IV bag home to rehydrate herself.
Ortiz is accused of injecting a nerve-blocking drug into IV bags.
The complaint further alleges that Dr. Ortiz had a history of disciplinary actions against him, expressed concern to other physicians over disciplinary action at the facility, and complained the center was trying to “crucify” him.
The complaint alleges that surveillance video from the center’s operating room hallway showed Dr. Ortiz placing IV bags into the stainless-steel bag warmer shortly before other doctors’ patients experienced cardiac emergencies.
“The safety of the nation’s pharmaceutical supply is critically important,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will vigorously prosecute this case consistent with the evidence gathered by our law enforcement partners.”
Ortiz is charged with tampering with a consumer product and with intentionally adulterating drugs. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
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