PHARMACIST PLACED ON THREE YEARS' PROBATION

A pharmacist will spend three years on probation for illegally dispensing
drugs, a federal magistrate ruled.

Christopher R. Linger must also pay about $3,500 to two drug stores hurt by
his crimes, U.S. Magistrate Mary E. Stanley ruled.

Stanley further ordered Linger, 30, to volunteer at the Health Right clinic
in Morgantown at least four hours a week while on probation.

Linger, who now lives in Morgantown, pleaded guilty to drug charges earlier
this year. Investigators alleged Linger illegally dispensed pain drugs in
Southern West Virginia late last year.

Linger may apply for reinstatement with the state Board of Pharmacy, which
regulates his profession, Stanley's order said. She also advised that he
continue to receive substance abuse counseling.