U.S. Attorney Mark A. Totten | U.S. Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, Mark Totten, has announced the sentencing of Erik Miller, a 47-year-old from Sturgis, Michigan. Miller received a 70-month prison sentence for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances such as methamphetamine, MDMA, and Xanax. He had previously admitted guilt in distributing pills and other drugs through dark web transactions.
"One pill can kill," stated U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. "Individuals should only take prescription drugs prescribed by a trusted medical professional and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. My office will continue holding peddlers accountable for pushing potentially deadly poisons into our communities."
Miller's activities began in 2022 when he collaborated with a dark web vendor to distribute counterfeit Xanax pills along with illegal substances like methamphetamine and MDMA. He also sold legitimate prescription drugs without requiring prescriptions from customers. During his involvement in the conspiracy, Miller frequently received shipments containing thousands of Xanax pills and other drugs to fulfill orders.
On April 14, 2023, investigators executed search warrants at Miller's residence and another related property due to his role in the operation. The searches uncovered both controlled and non-controlled substances including MDMA, methamphetamine, cocaine, LSD, counterfeit Xanax, and evidence indicative of drug trafficking activities. Additionally, Miller was found in possession of three firearms despite being legally prohibited from owning them.
Counterfeit pills are known to contain incorrect or harmful ingredients that differ from legitimate medications. They may have no active ingredient or incorrect dosages of the right ingredient and can include lethal amounts of fentanyl or methamphetamine. These counterfeit pills pose significant risks as they often resemble genuine prescription medications closely.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) provides further information on the dangers posed by counterfeit pills through their Fact Sheet and the "One Pill Can Kill" website at www.dea.gov/onepill.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), while Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Carowan prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
