SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A United States Magistrate Judge has ordered Catherine Worman, a 33-year-old nurse from Sandy, Utah, to remain in custody following her recent arrest and federal indictment. Worman is accused of illegally distributing and dispensing morphine, leading to a person’s death.
Court documents state that on June 5, 2023, Worman, while employed at a local hospital, distributed and dispensed morphine, resulting in a fatality. Additionally, she is alleged to have administered morphine intravenously to at least one other individual without a prescription. This individual reportedly became severely ill and feared for his life. Investigations also uncovered evidence from Worman’s cell phone indicating her involvement in unlawfully obtaining and trading Adderall prescribed to others. She is also accused of illegally acquiring prescription medications through a romantic relationship with another healthcare worker.
At the time of her arrest, Worman was still employed in healthcare, leading the U.S. Attorney’s Office to request her detention pending trial. She faces charges of distributing morphine resulting in death. Her initial court appearance was on January 19, 2024, at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in Salt Lake City.
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins of the District of Utah. The Draper Police Department is conducting the investigation, with the case being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah.
It is important to note that an indictment is a formal charge and not a determination of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.