From the War on Terror to the War on Opiates

Ronald W. Chapman II is a distinguished federal criminal defense attorney based in Detroit, Michigan, renowned for his exceptional success in high-stakes litigation. A former Marine Corps Officer and Judge Advocate, Ron honed his investigative skills during the Global War on Terror, conducting complex probes into weapons trafficking, narcotics operations, and counterterrorism threats. Transitioning to private practice, he has become a formidable advocate for healthcare providers and executives facing federal prosecution, False Claims Act allegations, and regulatory enforcement actions.

Over the past decade, Ron has built a reputation as one of the most formidable trial attorneys in the country. His record-setting acquittals, dismissals, and non-prosecutions have earned national recognition, with federal judges acknowledging his courtroom skills as among the best they have seen in “20 years on the bench.” His meticulous approach, combined with a relentless commitment to his clients, has led to precedent-setting victories that have reshaped federal healthcare fraud and white-collar criminal defense.

Unmatched Trial Results and Record Acquittals

Ron’s success in federal courts is unparalleled. He has secured full acquittals in cases involving over $550 million in alleged healthcare fraud, defeated high-profile federal drug trafficking charges, and successfully challenged DOJ-led opioid task force prosecutions. His courtroom victories have led to the dismissal of cases that would have otherwise resulted in life-altering convictions for physicians and healthcare professionals.

Landmark Victories

• United States v. Bothra (Michigan, 2022): Acquittal in one of the largest healthcare fraud cases in U.S. history—a $550 million fraud and drug trafficking indictment against five physicians accused of unlawfully distributing 13 million doses of Oxycodone.

• United States v. Pompy (Michigan, 2022): Acquittal of an interventional pain physician accused of a $6 million healthcare fraud and drug trafficking scheme.

• United States v. Sachy (Georgia, 2023): Mid-trial judicial dismissal of charges alleging unlawful prescribing resulting in patient deaths—a rare outcome that underscores Ron’s ability to dismantle the prosecution’s case.

• United States v. Kousa (Kentucky, 2023): Full acquittal of a physician accused of drug trafficking and healthcare fraud—defeating charges brought by the Department of Justice’s Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid Task Force (ARPO).

• United States v. Hansen (Kentucky, 2024): Ten-count acquittal of drug trafficking and healthcare fraud charges, marking another victory against DOJ-led opioid prosecutions.

• Naum v. United States (U.S. Supreme Court): Represented a West Virginia physician before the Supreme Court, securing a vacated conviction and reshaping the interpretation of prescribing laws in federal cases.

Ron’s ability to win cases at trial is virtually unparalleled. In a system where only 0.6% of federal defendants are acquitted, Ron has secured five full trial acquittals in just the past two years, setting a new standard in federal criminal defense.

Nationwide Influence in Federal Criminal Defense

Ron’s expertise is sought after nationwide. He has successfully defended clients in multiple U.S. District Courts and has argued cases before the United States Supreme Court and the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 5th, 6th, 9th, and 11th Circuits. His ability to navigate complex litigation across multiple jurisdictions has made him the go-to defense attorney for physicians, executives, and business leaders facing federal prosecution.

Key Federal Court Admissions and Experience

• United States Supreme Court: Successfully vacated convictions.

• Federal Appellate Courts: Extensive experience handling cases before the 5th, 6th, 9th, and 11th Circuits.

• United States District Courts: Defended high-profile clients in courts nationwide, securing record-breaking acquittals and pre-trial dismissals.

Through a strategic, data-driven approach to litigation, Ron ensures that clients facing federal prosecution have the highest level of defense possible. His ability to challenge government investigations, expose prosecutorial weaknesses, and present compelling arguments to juries has led to unprecedented success in high-risk trials.

Trusted Legal Analyst & National Media Presence

Beyond the courtroom, Ron is a recognized legal expert frequently called upon to provide analysis on major federal criminal and constitutional law issues. He has appeared as a legal analyst for BBC, Fox News, NewsNation, NPR, and Scripps, offering insights on government investigations, federal enforcement trends, and high-profile trials. His commentary is valued for its depth, objectivity, and ability to break down complex legal issues for a broad audience.

A Proven Leader in Federal Defense Strategy

Ron’s career is defined by his ability to outmaneuver the federal government in the courtroom. His unwavering commitment to justice, combined with a relentless work ethic and sharp legal instincts, has resulted in historic trial victories that have reshaped federal healthcare fraud and opioid-related litigation.

For executives, physicians, and professionals facing federal prosecution, Ron’s presence in the courtroom represents the highest level of defense strategy available—one built on precision, credibility, and an unmatched track record of success.