N.J. Dentist Smoked Crystal Meth, Had It Sent To His Office: Authorities

A New Jersey dentist smoked and injected crystal meth with another man and had it sent to his office, according to a release from the state Attorney General's Office.

Dr. Frederick D. Bailey, 56, who practices in Union Township, had his license suspended after he was arrested on Aug. 22 at his home by the Denville Police, according to the release.

Bailey is the second dentist from the Morris County area accused of running afoul with the law within the past month. Another dentist linked to a 15-case bacterial infection outbreak was suspended earlier this month.

Read more: N.J. Dentist Suspended After He's Linked To 15-Case Bacterial Outbreak

Bailey was in possession of crystal methamphetamine at the time of his arrest; had obtained Adderall and other prescription medications through fraud; and was in possession of drug paraphernalia including a glass smoking pipe, digital scale and hypodermic needle, according to the release.

Bailey and his longtime partner had smoked crystal methamphetamine in his home with a man they had met on a social dating site, and Bailey had provided that individual with a needle to inject crystal methamphetamine, according to the release.

Bailey also used Adderall without a prescription, and he prescribes pain medication in the name of his partner for his own use, according to the release. Bailey was also alleged to have obtained crystal methamphetamine by having it sent via Fed Ex to his dental office, according to the release.

“Health care providers have a fundamental duty to put the safety of their patients above all else. Any practitioner who engages in the use of illegal street drugs demonstrates a blatant disregard for that responsibility and poses a clear and imminent danger to anyone in their care,” said Attorney General Christopher S. Porrino. “We will not allow dentists or any other health care professional to play fast and loose with the safety of their patients.”

“The allegations against Dr. Bailey indicate a disturbing lack of judgment that calls into question his fitness to practice,” said Steve Lee, director of the Division of Consumer Affairs. “By temporarily suspending his license, the Board has acted to protect the public while these very serious charges are pending.”

Bailey agreed to the suspension of his license to practice dentistry in any way until further action by the board, according to the release.

Bailey also has agreed to enroll in a professional assistance program and to comply with recommendations for treatment, including, but not limited to: monthly face-to-face contact with representatives from that program; attendance at support groups, including Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous at a minimum of three times per week; urine monitoring not less than once a week; and continued therapy with a psychiatrist or therapist, if recommended.

Prior to any restoration of his license, Bailey must demonstrate to the board, among other things: a minimum of six months of abstaining from use of any psychoactive substances, including alcohol; that he is physically and psychologically fit; that he is capable of discharging the functions of a licensee in a manner consistent with the public’s health, safety and welfare; and that he is not suffering from any impairment or limitations resulting from the use of, or in possession of any controlled dangerous substance, whether legal or illegal, which could affect his practice.

Patients who believe that they have been treated by a licensed health care professional in an inappropriate manner can file an online complaint with the State Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 (toll free within New Jersey) or 973-504-6200.

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