‘Below Deck’ Guests Caught in Prescription Drug Plot, Says Authorities

A Long Island urologist and his wife, who appeared on Bravo's Below Deck as guests, are expected to appear in court on Dec. 14 regarding an alleged prescription scam. Dr. Francis Martinis and Jessica were arrested in May, after police in Suffolk County began investigating them, according to NBC News, who was first to report on the story.

The couple allegedly stole cast members' names and personal information to get oxycodone prescriptions, according to the outlet.

They were taken into custody after Jessica entered a Kings Park pharmacy to try and get the prescription filled in January. A pharmacist called police after the handwritten prescription sparked red flags.

Authorities discovered that Francis had written oxycodone prescriptions for pharmacies all over Suffolk County for two years. Jessica then allegedly went to pharmacies and paid cash to pick up the prescription. Some were for the names of two stars of the reality series.

Authorities have not disclosed if the couple used and/or sold the drugs.

Francis and Jessica have each been charged with eight counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance and falsifying business records, according to New York State Court's website.

"My clients have pled not guilty and are presumed innocent and look forward to their day in Court to clear their names," Peter Crusco, the couple's attorney, said in a statement to The Messenger. "The evidence will show the charges are bogus and cannot be substantiated."

The Messenger also reached out to the Suffolk County District Attorney's office and the Suffolk Police Department for comment. The Messenger also reached out to Bravo.

Francis has made two appearances on the franchise. He and Jessica appeared on Below Deck Mediterranean during a trip on the French Riviera in 2019. Francis returned in 2020 on Below Deck Sailing Yacht. The pair also went to promotional events with crew members.

This post has been updated with a statement from the couple's attorney Peter Crusco.