Ex-Pharmacist Faces Drug Tampering, Other Charges In Patients’ Possible Exposure to HIV, Hepatitis

SOMERS POINT – GMS Law, an Atlantic City law firm, is talking to two clients who were possibly exposed to HIV and hepatitis, and expects more to come forward for a class action lawsuit against Shore Medical Center, according to a report on nj.com.
The alleged negligence of Frederick P. McLeish, 53, of Egg Harbor Township, a former Shore Medical Center pharmacist, may have exposed 213 patients to HIV and hepatitis. 
According to a previous report, Shore Medical Center sent out letters to inform patients who received intravenous morphine or hydromorphine medicines between June 1, 2013, and Sept. 17, 2014, that they could have been exposed to HIV or hepatitis B or C.
According to the report, McLeish was suspended in September 2014 and arrested on Jan. 21, 2016. He was charged with drug tampering, theft by unlawful taking and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. 
McLeish will appear in court March 7 for a status conference for allegedly taking morphine vials intended for patients and replacing it with saline solution, the report continued.
GMS Law is putting together the class action lawsuit, which is pending the determination of a judge.
GMS Law attorney Mark Pfeffer told nj.com the hospital violated the Pure Food and Drug Act, which protects consumers from tainted drugs. Claims in the lawsuit also involve McLeish’s employment and the hospital’s delay in notifying patients of their possible exposure to HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C.
A Shore Medical Center spokesman told nj.com the hospital does not comment on pending litigation but all employees are mandated to follow strict policies when it comes to treating patients.
According to the report, the hospital is providing free testing for patients.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.