Doctor Found With Pot May Have License Revoked

A Newport Beach doctor charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession in 2008 may have his physician and surgeon license revoked later this month, according to court documents filed with the Medical Board of California.

According to the court documents, troubles with the law began for Dr. Paul F. Reardon, 54, who lives in Laguna Beach, when he was pulled over in Laguna Niguel on Nov. 13, 2007,  after the Orange County Sheriff's Department received a call about a drunk driver. 

That night Reardon told police he had been picking up his children from karate lessons and admitted to shifting lanes but said he, "was turning around to talk to his children," the documents state.  The responding officer reported a strong odor of marijuana in Reardon's car. According to the court records, 16.36 grams of marijuana, rolling papers, one joint and one smoked joint were found in a white plastic bag stuffed inside the passenger seat rear pocket of Reardon's car.

The case was dismissed on February 14, 2008, after Reardon completed an eight-hour drug-diversion program.

Reardon practices at in Newport Beach. He has been a licensed physician and surgeon since 1991. His license will expire May 31 unless renewed by the board.