Dr. Phillip M. Jensen, a 64-year-old dentist from Rochester, Illinois, was sentenced last week to 15 years in federal prison for stealing fentanyl from his patients, administering adulterated drugs, and performing surgeries without proper pain management. In addition to the prison sentence, Jensen was ordered to pay a $200,000 fine.
Jensen, who specialized in oral and maxillofacial surgery until his license was suspended in 2022, pleaded guilty in August 2024 to multiple charges, including drug diversion, tampering with consumer products, and falsifying healthcare records.
Federal prosecutors revealed that Jensen began stealing fentanyl as early as December 2019, diluting the vials with saline, and gluing caps back on to conceal his actions. Staff at his practice first raised concerns when patients showed signs of pain and distress during surgeries. Jensen admitted to stealing at least half the fentanyl from every vial, ultimately diverting over 40 grams of the opioid for personal use.
During his sentencing before U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless, evidence was presented detailing Jensen's addiction struggles and the steps he took to disguise his theft. The court also heard from victims, including a mother who described the trauma her child endured during an inadequately anesthetized surgery and a patient who awoke during a procedure and was struck by Jensen before he continued operating without proper pain management.
Judge Lawless condemned Jensen’s actions, stating, “If you cannot trust your doctor, who can you trust?” She emphasized that Jensen betrayed his patients’ trust and profited from their suffering.
Jensen’s crimes came to light following a 2022 federal indictment on 20 felony counts. Initially released on bond, he was detained in July 2024 after violating bond conditions by stalking and harassing a witness.
In addition to the prison term and fine, Jensen lost his medical license and was ordered to repay government expenses for expert witnesses used in the case.
“This case represents the commitment of the Department of Justice to protect the public from those who prey upon them,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris. “Jensen abused his position of trust and caused significant harm. This prosecution ensures he will no longer be able to harm members of our community.”
The investigation was led by the DEA Diversion Unit, FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations, the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas F. McMeyer and Sierra Senor-Moore prosecuted the case.