Georgia doctor, 2 medical workers arrested in ‘massive’ pill mill, Feds say

COFFEE COUNTY, Ga. — Three medical professionals from Georgia are facing dozens of charges in what federal officials call a massive pill mill operation.

The indictment released Wednesday details the alleged operation in which “massive quantities” of controlled substances, including highly addictive opioids, were to be distributed in Coffee County.

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The charges include one count of distribution and dispensation of controlled substances resulting in death by Dr. Wallace Steven Anderson, 67, of Douglas. The charge carries a minimum statutory sentence of 20 years in prison, up to life. There is no parole in the federal system.

Anderson is the owner of Steve Anderson, PC, and Steve Anderson Behavioral Health, both located in Douglas. Authorities alleged Anderson, along with workers Bridgett Stephanie Taylor, 55, and Wandle Keith Butler, 57, operated or assisted in operating “nominal pain management and addiction facilities which dispensed controlled substances without any legitimate medical purpose” from Feb. 1, 2016 to Sept. 30, 2020.

The suspects are facing the following charges:

• Anderson, charged with Conspiracy; Distribution and Dispensation of Controlled Substances Resulting in Death; 48 counts of Unlawful Distribution and Dispensation of Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare Fraud; and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments;
• Bridgett Stephanie Taylor, 55, of Broxton, Ga., a Nurse Practitioner working under Anderson, charged with Conspiracy; eight counts of Unlawful Distribution and Dispensation of Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare Fraud; and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments; and,
• Wandle Keith Butler, 57, of Douglas, a Physician Assistant working under Anderson, charged with Conspiracy; three counts of Unlawful Distribution and Dispensation of Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare Fraud; and Conspiracy to Launder Monetary Instruments.

“Our efforts to eradicate the illegal distribution of dangerous and addictive drugs in our neighborhoods target both the shadowy street dealers and white-coated prescribers alike,” said Acting U.S. Attorney David Estes. “With our law enforcement partners, we will continue to bring to justice those who would spread poison in our communities.”

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The Douglas police department posted pictures of the arrests at Anderson’s office.

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