A federal jury convicted a Merrick doctor for writing illegal prescriptions and causing two overdose deaths.

Federal prosecutors say Michael Belfiore made thousands of dollars by selling prescriptions for painkillers.

Belfiore was convicted of two counts of illegal distribution of oxycodone causing the deaths of two patients and 26 counts of illegal distribution of oxycodone.

Two of his patients died after overdosing in 2013.

He faces a minimum of 20 years behind bars.

“Dr. Belfiore was acting not as a healer, but as a drug dealer with a prescription pad,” said U.S. Attorney Richard Donoghue.