Boogaard's addiction: Street sale of prescription drugs

Derek Boogaard
In this file photo from Dec. 9, 2009, Minnesota Wild left winger Derek Boogaard warms up before a game in Denver.
David Zalubowski/ASSOCIATED PRESS

The New York Times published an investigative article Monday on former Minnesota Wild hockey player Derek Boogaard's struggle with prescription drug addiction. He died last year at the age of 28 after an accidental overdose of narcotic painkillers and alcohol.

According to reporter John Branch, Boogaard was able to illegally purchase prescription drugs on the street with relative ease. How widespread is the street sale of prescription drugs and what are the consequences?