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CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A former nurse at an eastern Wyoming hospital was sentenced to eight months in prison after authorities say he stole medication intended for patients.

KTWO-AM reports Ryan Joseph Harris was sentenced in federal court Wednesday after he pleaded guilty in November to tampering with a consumer product and acquiring a controlled substance by misrepresentation, deception or subterfuge.

Authorities say Harris stole the opioid hydromorphone while working at the Memorial Hospital of Converse County in Douglas.

Hospital officials say pharmacy staff found that more than 400 patients may not have received the medication as prescribed.

Officials say Harris stole the narcotic to feed his addiction.

A federal judge also sentenced Harris to three years of supervised release, and he must participate in treatment programs.

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Information from: KTWO-AM, http://www.k2radio.com/