Pharmacist asserts city of Sugar Land intimidating customers, demands $38 million

HOUSTON - A Houston pharmacist who runs a pharmacy in Sugar Land is suing the city for $38 million, claiming it is trying to ruin her business.

In court documents filed Jan. 8 in Houston federal court, Dr. Sacha Betts asserts Sugar Land is using its police department to intimidate her, ProMed Rx PLLC and their customers.

The purported "campaign of discrimination and harassment" began in September 2010, according to Betts.

She explains that the defendant sent police cars to ProMed's facilities in an effort to prevent or "significantly" restring those who wish to patronize the business.

Without probable cause, the original petition states, the officers reportedly stopped, intimidated, harassed and even arrested anyone looking to get their prescriptions from ProMed.

Betts adds there is a CVS Pharmacy nearby, but it is her business being singled out as a "pill mill" by the respondent.

The suit alleges the defendant "has gone as far as" forcing ProMed's customers to produce their prescriptions and medical records for a police officer to take pictures of in violation of federal HIPPA laws.

Betts also believes the city is targeting her and her business because she is a black female.

A jury trial is requested.

Attorney Eric L. Rhodes of Daniel Williams & Associates PLLC in Houston is representing the complainant.

Case No. 4:14-CV-0034