An Ecuadorian man, Daniel Pinos, has been sentenced to one year of non-reporting probation and a $100 special assessment for his role in a conspiracy to introduce misbranded prescription drugs into the United States. The sentence was handed down by United States District Court Judge John M. Gallagher.

Pinos, 30, who is an Ecuadorian dentist, pleaded guilty last week to the charge of introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. Since around 2022, Pinos made regular trips to the U.S., providing dental care and prescription drugs without being licensed to practice dentistry or prescribe medications in the country. Some of these drugs were shipped from Ecuador.

On September 10, 2024, law enforcement officials encountered Pinos and seized misbranded drugs along with medical and dental equipment.

Acting U.S. Attorney Nelson S.T. Thayer Jr. stated: “In the U.S., we regulate health care and medications, to keep people safe. Pinos understood that he wasn’t licensed to practice dentistry or provide prescription drugs here but did so nonetheless. This office and the FBI will continue to investigate such medical malfeasance and hold those who commit it accountable.”

Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia, added: “The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to protect our citizens and safeguard the integrity of our healthcare systems. We applaud the hard work of the Allentown Resident Agency and our partners in this case and in their efforts to keep our communities safe.”

The investigation was conducted by FBI Philadelphia’s Allentown Resident Agency and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John J. Boscia.