Trinidad Pharmacy Pays $250,000, Agrees to Federal Oversight

Federal authorities reached a resolution on December 23, 2025 with COBigRed, Inc., the parent company of Hometown Pharmacy and Medical in Trinidad, after alleging violations of the Controlled Substances Act. The company agreed to pay $250,000 and to accept a compliance agreement that imposes stricter oversight, while not admitting liability as part of the settlement. Prosecutors said the alleged conduct took place from January 2017 through December 2023.

The filing accused the pharmacy of filling prescriptions that were not for a legitimate medical purpose and failing to exercise required due diligence. Specific red flags cited by federal prosecutors included unusually high daily opioid doses, combinations of drugs that increase risk to patients, patients paying cash despite having insurance, patients traveling long distances to obtain medications, and repeated early refill requests. Authorities also said pharmacy staff did not adequately consult Colorado's Prescription Drug Monitoring Program and did not document their vetting steps.

For residents of Las Animas County the case underscores how local pharmacies play a frontline role in preventing medication diversion and protecting public health. Restrictions on a pharmacy or changes to its operations can affect continuity of care for patients who rely on regular prescriptions, particularly those with chronic pain conditions who may already have limited options locally. The compliance agreement requires the company to adopt stronger procedures and oversight, which could alter how prescriptions are verified and dispensed in the community.

Federal law enforcement involvement signals heightened scrutiny of dispensing practices statewide, and it may prompt other pharmacies to review how they monitor controlled substance prescriptions and document their decisions. Patients who have questions about past prescriptions or current medication plans should speak with their health care providers to ensure records are complete and appropriate safeguards are in place.

The settlement concluded with financial penalties and the compliance terms, resolving the federal allegations without an admission of guilt by the company. Local public health and medical providers will be watching how implemented oversight measures affect access and safety in the months ahead.