United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero has announced the sentencing of Mauricio Sarmiento, a 35-year-old Ecuadorian national, for introducing misbranded prescription drugs into interstate commerce without a license. The sentencing was delivered by United States District Court Judge John M. Gallagher, who imposed one year of non-reporting probation, a $500 fine, and a $100 special assessment on Sarmiento.

Sarmiento pleaded guilty on November 20, 2024, to charges related to his activities since around 2022. During this period, he traveled regularly from Ecuador to the United States to provide medical care and dispense prescription drugs in exchange for payment. Despite not holding a U.S. medical license or authorization to prescribe drugs domestically, Sarmiento continued these practices and facilitated the shipment of some medications from Ecuador.

On September 10, 2024, law enforcement authorities intercepted Sarmiento and confiscated misbranded drugs along with medical equipment such as intravenous medications and a centrifuge used for plasma therapy.

"Medical care and treatments are tightly regulated in this country, to keep people healthy and safe," stated U.S. Attorney Romero. "Sarmiento was well aware that he wasn’t licensed to practice here and that the drugs he dispensed were misbranded. This office and the FBI will continue to work on the public’s behalf to prosecute such medical malfeasance."

Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia emphasized their commitment: "Protecting the safety of our community is our highest priority," he said. "The FBI is steadfast in its commitment to investigating fraud, safeguarding the integrity of our healthcare systems, and ensuring those who exploit them are held accountable."

The investigation was conducted by FBI Philadelphia's Allentown Resident Agency with prosecution led by Assistant United States Attorney John J. Boscia.