Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
A doctor in Pinellas Park was arrested this week for allegedly selling over 550 illegitimate prescriptions to patients. According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s office, deputies opened up an investigation on Dr. Neelam Uppal after receiving a tip about fake prescriptions being sold out of her home and her business in Clearwater.
According to detectives, Uppal sold over five hundred and fifty (550) Promethazine Codeine Syrup prescriptions and hundreds of Oxycodone prescriptions. Detectives say Dr. Uppal has been preying on drug addicts for several years.
During the investigation, she wrote prescriptions to undercover cops without ever examining or speaking to them. Detectives then paid $650 cash for prescriptions for Codeine Syrup and $450 cash for a of Oxycodone. On Tuesday the sheriff's office served a search warrant at Uppal’s house and office and found:
Prescription pads
Patient records and documents
Handwritten ledgers
$1,906,483.00 in US Currency
Gold bars and jewelry valued at approximately $175,000
She was charged with trafficking codeine and oxycodone. [Source IONTB]
Guess which Florida park makes the top 5 on list for top places to stargaze in the U.S.!
The best part about getting away from a city is the lack of light pollution which allows us to see amazing views of the night sky. The nonprofit International Dark Sky Association (IDA) recognizes places around the world where the night sky is preserved. These national parks are IDA certified and one may be closer to home than you think!
#1. Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah
With almost no light pollution, the Natural Bridges National Monument is the top spot to plan a stargazing trip. Camp out on your own or take advantage of one of the park’s ranger-led stargazing programs to get the full experience.
#2. Big Bend National Park in Texas
Located on the boarder of western Texas, Big Bend National Park is the largest protected area of the Chihuahuan Desert in the United States. Because the park is so remote, it's a perfect location to getaway from large crowds and the with the darkest skies in the U.S., you'll be sure to see some spectacular views!
#3. Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico
If you're looking for a more informative trip or want to immerse in Native American culture, the Chaco Culture National Historical Park supports the Chaco's Night Sky Initiative, which combines the astronomy practices of the Chacoan people with modern approaches.
#4. Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania
Located in the Susquehannock State Forest. Cherry Springs park is open year-round and usually has between 60 and 85 nights when stargazing conditions are ideal. Consider staying a night at Astronomy Field, which offers unobstructed 360º views.
#5. Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida
Right in the heart of South Florida, Big Cypress National Preserve is the home of the Florida panther, black bear, and a wide variety of wildlife. Staying in the heart of the reserve will surround yourself with black skies and increases your chances of getting a glimpse of the Milky Way.
