Saskatoon pharmacist sentenced to 5 years in prison for drug trafficking

Saskatoon Pharmacist Sentenced to Five Years for Trafficking Drugs

Jenna Ternan, the former owner and operator of a pharmacy in Saskatoon, has pleaded guilty to trafficking drugs, specifically admitting to illegally selling over 22,000 oxycodone pills. The 43-year-old was sentenced to five years in prison by Justice David Gerecke, who described her actions as an “appalling breach of trust” that harmed many individuals.

The investigation into Ternan began when police arrested a man in January 2023 and found drugs, including oxycodone pills with labels from Northumberland Pharmacy, which Ternan owned. Messages on the man’s phone revealed exchanges between him and Ternan discussing drug transactions for money. It was later discovered that Ternan had sold a significant number of pills, valued between $58,000 and $87,400, from September 2022 to January 2023.

Ternan was apprehended in March 2023 alongside her partner, Elmer Hanson, who passed away before facing trial. Ternan’s defense lawyer, Will Louison, explained that Hanson’s drug addiction and chronic injury led him to suggest drug trafficking as a means of coping. Ternan, who supported Hanson financially and employed him at the pharmacy, acknowledges her role in the illegal activities.

Despite the involvement of both parties, Ternan takes responsibility for her actions and recognizes the wrongdoing. The judge considered sentencing guidelines for pharmacists involved in drug trafficking, noting that while sentences typically range from three to 14 years, Ternan’s case warranted five years due to the breach of trust. With credit for time served, Ternan has approximately three years and 11 months left to serve.

The case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of drug trafficking, especially when carried out by professionals in positions of trust. Ternan’s sentence reflects the gravity of her actions and the impact they had on the community.