Former St. Louis Pediatrician Sentenced to 20 Years for Exchanging Prescriptions for Sexual Acts

A former St. Louis County, Missouri pediatrician, Craig A. Spiegel, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for illegally prescribing controlled substances in exchange for sex acts, nude photos, and cash. The sentencing took place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, following Spiegel’s guilty plea to multiple charges.

Details of the Case

Craig Spiegel, 70, exploited his position as a pediatrician to obtain illicit benefits from patients, some of whom he had treated since childhood. The illegal activity spanned from at least 2014 through May 2023. Investigators found that Spiegel pressured victims into providing sexual favors or photographs at his office in Bridgeton or their homes .

Charges and Plea

Spiegel initially faced 25 counts but pleaded guilty to three charges: illegal distribution of controlled substances, making false statements related to health care matters, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Victims and Impact

The investigation revealed that Spiegel prescribed opioids to at least 19 patients in exchange for sexual acts, nude photos, or money. He continued prescribing drugs even to patients struggling with substance use disorders. Tragically, one patient, identified as N.L., died from an overdose in 2022.

Family members of N.L. Shared victim impact statements in court, expressing their grief and anger over Spiegel’s actions. They stated that Spiegel knowingly continued to prescribe drugs despite being aware of her addiction, ultimately contributing to her death.

Co-Defendant and Financial Losses

Spiegel also prescribed controlled substances to a co-defendant, April Bingham, in exchange for sexual favors. Bingham was found to be selling the drugs and struggling with addiction herself. She previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 21 months in prison in 2024.

The illegal prescription practices resulted in losses totaling $114,480 to Medicare, Missouri Medicaid, and Illinois Medicaid.

False Statements and Sentencing

Spiegel further admitted to lying under oath during a prior court hearing, falsely accusing Bridgeton police of misconduct in an attempt to suppress evidence. U.S. District Judge John A. Ross, while acknowledging Spiegel’s age and health, described his actions as a “horrendous breach of trust” and sentenced him to 20 years in prison.

Ongoing Investigation

The Bridgeton Police Department encourages anyone with information related to this case to come forward. The department’s tipline is 314-373-3876, and their email is Tips@bridgetonmo.com.