Family Pharmacy Drama: Burklow Trio Arrested in Pill Mill Crackdown!

4880 Woodbine Road, Pace, FL, USA - In a shocking turn of events, the Burklow family, owners of Pace Pharmacy in Milton, Florida, have found themselves at the center of an extensive drug investigation. Stephen Allen Burklow (54), Monique Hunter Burklow (58), and their daughter Laikyn Noel Burklow (22) were arrested on new charges of illegal drug possession. This latest development marks a significant escalation in a multi-year investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) into their alleged „pill mill“ activities at the pharmacy, located at 4880 Woodbine Road.

The family surrendered to the Santa Rosa County Jail on June 23 after the FDLE obtained arrest warrants. Previously, on May 14, 2025, Stephen, Monique, and pharmacist David Barron Winkles were arrested, primarily for allegedly conspiring to traffic prescription drugs including over 48 pounds of oxycodone, 57 pounds of hydrocodone, and nearly one kilogram of hydromorphone, according to Tampa FP.

A Pattern of Allegations

The Burklows‘ troubles are compounded by a history of disciplinary actions related to their pharmacy practices. Stephen Burklow, who has been a licensed pharmacist since August 3, 1993, has owned an independent pharmacy for 20 years. He has faced reprimands and fines for dispensing drugs in excessive or inappropriate quantities, including failing to offer counseling on prescriptions. Monique has also been involved in the pharmacy industry as a human resource manager during this time.

The FDLE investigation, which kicked off in December 2020, delved into suspicious activities surrounding Dr. Elaine Sharp, who allegedly directed patients to fill excessive controlled substance prescriptions at Pace Pharmacy. The Burklows and Winkles reportedly dispensed these illicit prescriptions, not intended for legitimate medical purposes. Stephen Burklow is facing a staggering array of charges: 10 felony counts of possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, five felony counts of identity theft, and 10 misdemeanor counts of possession of drugs without a prescription. Meanwhile, Monique faces a felony count and several misdemeanors, while Laikyn is contending with a misdemeanor charge of her own.

Legal Repercussions and Ongoing Investigation

The recent arrests are just one chapter in a broader, ongoing investigation into the Burklow family’s pharmaceutical dealings. According to PNJ, prior incidents concerning the Burklows included disciplinary actions for over-prescribing medications, adding a murkier tint to their already troubling history. The FDLE’s search of Pace Pharmacy coincided with the May arrests, revealing the extent of the alleged drug trade established by the family.

As this investigation continues, all eyes are on the future of Pace Pharmacy, which has become a focal point in Florida’s battle against illegal drug trafficking. With the cases expected to be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney for the First Judicial Circuit, it remains to be seen how the legal system will handle this complex web of allegations. Their appear before the court undoubtedly will be a critical moment, not just for the Burklows, but for the broader community as it grapples with the implications of prescription drug abuse.

While the hunt for justice does a good deal to unsettle the Burklows, it also calls into question the operations of pharmacies across Florida. The outcome of this case could steer future regulations and enforcement strategies, shining a light on the importance of maintaining integrity in healthcare.