Canadian Citizen Sentenced to Four Years for Role in Internet Drug Outlet Operation
Andrew J. Strempler, a Canadian citizen, was sentenced to four years in prison for charges related to the operation of a Web site illegally marketing and distributing prescription drugs to US residents. Strempler “pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud in connection with his role as owner and president of Mediplan Health Consulting Inc., a Canadian company that also operated under the name RxNorth.com,” indicates a US Department of Justice press release.
RxNorth illegally marketed and distributed prescription drug products, including unapproved and counterfeit products, by Internet, mail, and telephone orders. “Counterfeit prescription drugs sold through the internet pose a serious health hazard to consumers in the United States. These drugs can be adulterated, ineffective and unsafe. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to assisting the FDA enforce regulations to protect American consumers from these unsafe drugs,” stated US Attorney Wifredo A. Ferrer.
In addition to the prison sentence, Strempler was also ordered to pay a forfeiture of $300,000 and a fine of $25,000. A restitution hearing has been scheduled for February 26, 2013. Information about the risks of buying medications online from illegal sellers is available in the Safe Acquisition section of the AWARxE Web site. AWARxE also includes the recommended list of VIPPS® (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice SitesCM)-accredited Internet pharmacies.
