Massachusetts: Two Charged in Overdose Deaths

A former doctor and nurse practitioner who worked in Needham were charged Thursday with the overdose deaths of six patients and overprescribing powerful prescription painkillers for financial gain. The doctor, Joseph Zolot, and the nurse, Lisa Pliner, were accused of conspiring to distribute the painkillers fentanyl, methadone and oxycodone and distributing the drugs that led to the overdoses, which occurred from 2004 to 2006. Mr. Zolot surrendered his medical license two years ago, said his lawyer, David Meier. “Dr. Zolot’s intent at all times was to do good as a doctor,” he said. “It was never his intent to cause harm or death to his patients.”