Lancaster County Sheriff investigates major drug bust including HIV medications on I-80

LINCOLN, NEB — Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a drug bust that included HIV prescription drugs.

The Sheriff's Office says around 11:15 Wednesday morning Investigators stopped a van for following too closely while heading eastbound on I-80 between Lincoln and Waverly.

LSO says the investigator developed probable cause to search the vehicle.

“Seized THC products, large amounts of U.S. currency and multiple bags containing prescription drugs valued at over $840,000 in retail market value. Amongst the prescription medications were several drugs that are traditionally used to treat human immunodeficiency virus or HIV, which is prescribed to different individuals. In this case," said John Vik, LSO Captain.

LSO says criminal organizations often acquire these drugs through health care fraud schemes.

"Such as purchasing drugs from legitimate patients for a fraction of their worth or defrauding Medicare, Medicaid, and sometimes private insurance companies. These drugs are then repackaged and sold as black market medications that become recirculated and dispensed by dealers and disreputable pharmacies. Criminals profit from these schemes at the expense of vulnerable HIV patients who are deprived of access to safe and legitimate medications," said Vik.

LSO says it's working with law enforcement partners local and across the United States to stop criminals from taking advantage of members in the community.