Phillip M. Jensen, a 64-year-old dentist from Rochester, Illinois, was sentenced on December 18, 2024, to 15 years in federal prison for tampering with patient medications, stealing fentanyl for personal use, and performing surgeries without proper pain management. Jensen, who previously specialized in oral and maxillofacial surgery, also received a $200,000 fine and lost his medical license.

Jensen pleaded guilty in August to multiple charges, including drug diversion, tampering with consumer products, and making false statements related to health care. From 2019 to 2022, he systematically stole half the fentanyl from single-use vials meant for patients, replacing it with saline and gluing the safety caps back on. Patients undergoing surgery reported severe pain and distress, and some woke mid-procedure. In one instance, Jensen struck a patient in the head with an instrument when she regained consciousness and completed the surgery without adequate anesthesia.

At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless highlighted the harm inflicted on more than 99 victims, including one mother who recounted her child crying in agony post-surgery. Jensen falsified medical records to conceal his actions and billed insurance companies for full-strength medication. In total, he stole more than 40 grams of fentanyl.

Jensen's misconduct was exposed by staff who noticed patients reacting to pain during procedures. Following an indictment in 2022, he was released on bond but was later detained in 2024 for violating bond conditions by harassing a witness.

U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris condemned Jensen's abuse of trust, stating the prosecution’s role in preventing future harm. Law enforcement agencies, including the DEA and FDA, collaborated in the investigation, underscoring their commitment to holding medical professionals accountable for endangering patients.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of opioid misuse, even within the trusted confines of medical care.