Authorities search for former Centre Shops pharmacy operator

Authorities continue to search for former pharmacy operator Ajay Patel on charges of filling prescriptions as part of a drug-trafficking operation, according to a news release.

Patel operated three pharmacies in Manatee County, including the former Medicine Shoppe in the Centre Shops.

The Longboat Key pharmacy closed in February 2011. Patel said at the time that the company’s corporate executives in St. Louis, Mo., made the decision because of the seasonal nature of the location.

A warrant was issued for Patel in May 2012, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s website.

Three other suspects were arrested in 2010.

Patel, 39, may have fled the country.

Anyone with information can contact the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office at 747-3011, Ext. 2560.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].