Prominent Titusville Pharmacist Arrested by DEA

Prominent local figure, Basil Itani, has been arrested on charges filed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Itani, known for his extensive properties in the area and his pharmaceutical business, is now facing an array of serious accusations related to illicit distribution and dispensing of Schedule II controlled substances, including oxycodone and methadone. The charges detail multiple instances between February and April 2023 where Itani allegedly distributed and dispensed these controlled substances, outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. The charges allege that Mr. Itani knowingly and intentionally distributed and dispensed oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, on multiple occasions outside the usual course of professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. The incidents took place in the Middle District of Florida on the dates of February 2, February 15, and March 2, 2023. In addition, Mr. Itani is charged with the same offense involving oxycodone and methadone, another Schedule II controlled substance, on March 23 and April 12, 2023. Schedule II drugs, such as oxycodone and methadone, are defined by the DEA as substances with a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. These drugs are tightly regulated due to their potency and potential for misuse. In light of these charges, the United States is seeking forfeiture of any property associated with the alleged violations. If convicted, Mr. Itani will be required to forfeit any property or proceeds obtained directly or indirectly as a result of these violations. This includes any property used or intended to be used to facilitate these alleged offenses. The forfeiture also extends to any property that cannot be located, has been transferred or sold, placed beyond jurisdiction, diminished in value, or commingled with other property according to the provisions of 21 U.S.C§ 853(a)(1) and (2). Shared exclusively with TalkOfTitusville, an ex-employee details Itani's alleged manipulation of a former contractor. The contractor apparently performed work for Itani in exchange for medicine for his gravely ill daughter. The source reported that many others had supposedly made similar arrangements with Itani, often having to visit the pharmacy multiple times before he would fulfill his end of the deal. The ex-employee revealed their own reason for leaving Itani's employment was the anxiety-inducing nature of these sketchy practices. According to them, Itani would use unexpected bonuses as a strategy to deter employees from leaving and potentially exposing his illicit activities. In addition to the charges brought by the DEA, Itani is now facing potential forfeiture proceedings. Should he be convicted, he will be required to forfeit any proceeds obtained directly or indirectly from these violations, along with any property used or intended to facilitate the alleged offenses, as dictated by 21 U.S.C§ 853(a)(1) and (2). At his initial court session on Tuesday, Itani asserted his innocence, and plead Not Guilty. His release was contingent on several conditions including drug tests, surrendering his passport, and a prohibition on possessing firearms in his residence, as indicated in court documents. Itani's trial by jury is set to commence on August 7 at 9 a.m. As the investigation continues, the Titusville community and the wider public are reminded of the importance of vigilance and reporting any suspicious behavior to law enforcement. The full Indictment filing can be found below Basil-Itani-Arrest-Affidavit-1