Knoxville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center employee is facing criminal charges after investigators say she repeatedly stole fentanyl from the hospital while on duty.
According to court records, 41-year-old Alison Klafehn was arrested at work Monday, July 27, after being accused of taking multiple vials of fentanyl from the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center (UTMVC).
The investigation began after concerns were raised about irregular access to a controlled-substance dispensing cabinet.
Suspicious Activity Reported
According to a statement provided by UT officials, another Veterinary Medical Center employee noticed unusual activity involving Klafehn’s access to an automated medication dispensing system.
The university said the employee observed instances where the cabinet was opened without documented drug usage and at times that did not correspond with scheduled surgeries.
The activity was reported to a supervisor, who immediately contacted the University of Tennessee Police Department to investigate.
UT officials said the hospital has extensive safeguards in place for controlled substances, including:
- Automated medication dispensing systems
- Employee sign-in requirements
- Electronic tracking of medication access and quantities
- Security camera monitoring
Alleged Admissions and Surveillance Footage
According to police reports, Klafehn admitted during questioning that she had been ingesting fentanyl and reportedly told investigators she would take between six and eight milliliters at a time.
Court records state investigators reviewed security camera footage allegedly showing Klafehn removing fentanyl from the dispensing system and replacing the drug with sodium chloride solution.
Police believe the activity occurred on multiple occasions.
Investigators currently estimate that more than 40 milliliters of fentanyl may be missing, though authorities said the final amount could increase as the investigation continues.
University Responds
UT officials confirmed that Klafehn’s employment was terminated following the investigation.
In a statement, the university said the employee was dismissed for gross misconduct and that Veterinary Medical Center leadership is fully cooperating with law enforcement.
The university also said administrators are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident and evaluating existing security procedures to determine whether any additional safeguards are needed.
“Veterinary Medical Center leadership is fully cooperating with UTPD and is reviewing the details of this situation and all security protocols to determine whether additional actions are necessary,” the statement said.
Charges Filed
Klafehn has been charged with:
- Theft of property valued between $1,000 and $2,500
- Prescription drug fraud
The investigation remains ongoing.
