MONTREAL (Recycling Monster): Stericycle has agreed to pay more than $56 million to resolve criminal and civil investigations by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) over improper handling of controlled substances, which has resulted in several prescription drug thefts.

The settlement relates to operations conducted between 2015 and 2020 by Stericycle’s former Environmental Solutions division, which managed the collection, transportation, and disposal of regulated waste. According to federal authorities, the company failed to maintain adequate security measures while handling these controlled substances.

Stericycle to Pay $56 Million Over Controlled Substances Handling Violations

Investigators Cite Security Failures and Unreported Losses

Investigators found that Stericycle stored controlled substances in unsecured locations, left materials in unattended vehicles, failed to properly track shipments, and repeatedly neglected to report significant losses or suspected thefts. No crrective action was taken by company officials who were aware of the flaws in tracking systems, noted DEA authorities.

Criminal and Civil Penalties Under the Controlled Substances Act

Under the terms of the agreement, Stericycle will pay a criminal penalty of $19.08 million and an additional $37.81 million in civil penalties for violations of the Controlled Substances Act.

Stericycle Says Compliance and Ethics Programs Have Been Strengthened

Meanwhile, Stricycle stated that it has taken necessary steps to strengthen its compliance, security, and ethics programs to prevent future violations.