LONDON, Ky. — The federal drug trial of a Paintsville doctor is currently underway in London.

Dr. Loey Kousa is charged with five counts of unlawful drug distribution, two counts of health care fraud and two counts of lying in connection with health care benefits.

The indictment accuses Dr. Kousa of writing prescriptions for opioids to patients who had no legitimate need for them, then have them return for medically unnecessary tests.

Jury selection and opening arguments took place on Monday, with the government introducing its first witness later in the day.

The trial is expected to continue for up to nine days.