Closing arguments set in federal trial of Kan. doctor accused of running a ‘pill mill’

Closing arguments set in Kan. doctor’s drug trial

WICHITA, Kan. — Closing arguments are planned in the federal trial of a Kansas doctor whose clinic has been linked by prosecutors to 68 overdose deaths.

Dr. Stephen Schneider and his wife, Linda, are charged with 34 counts, including fraud, money-laundering and unlawfully prescribing drugs at their Haysville clinic. If convicted in federal court in Wichita, they face up to life imprisonment.

Prosecutors planned to call a final rebuttal witness Tuesday morning before the judge reads jury instructions.

The Schneiders’ case is shedding new light on medical treatment that some doctors portray as help for chronic pain sufferers. Federal authorities consider it part of the illegal drug trade.