PLEASANTON, CA – Dr. Chi C. Yang, former CEO of SynPep Corporation, completed an eight-month federal prison sentence in 2010 after pleading guilty to falsifying laboratory data submitted to key government research institutions. The case, originating from a 2006 indictment, exposed a deliberate scheme to mislead the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and Walter Reed Army Hospital regarding the purity of polypeptides – crucial building blocks of proteins used in scientific research.
The investigation revealed that Dr. Yang authorized the alteration of test results, specifically concerning the purity levels of these polypeptides. Instead of providing accurate data, SynPep Corporation knowingly submitted falsified reports to its federal agency clients. This deception wasn’t a one-time error; the altered data encompassed all test results sent by SynPep during the relevant period, raising concerns about the integrity of research potentially reliant on the compromised materials.
The scheme came to light following an indictment on May 23, 2006, charging both Yang and SynPep Corporation with seven counts of making false statements (18 U.S.C. 1001), seven counts of mail fraud (18 U.S.C. 1341), and two counts of conspiracy (18 U.S.C. 371). While the initial indictment included multiple charges, Yang ultimately pled guilty to a single count of making false statements. SynPep Corporation entered a guilty plea to three counts of the same offense. Prosecutors argued the falsification constituted a breach of trust with vital research facilities.
On December 10, 2009, Dr. Yang received his sentence: eight months of incarceration followed by a 36-month probation period. He was also ordered to pay a substantial $77,228 federal fine and to contribute to $11,386 in restitution, shared jointly with SynPep Corporation. The restitution was allocated to the affected institutions: $1,312.68 to Walter Reed Army Hospital, $19,456.79 to the NIH, and $2,002.67 to LLNL. SynPep Corporation received its own sentencing on December 21, 2009, facing a $20,000 fine and shared responsibility for the restitution payments.
The case highlights the serious consequences of scientific fraud and the potential impact on critical research. While the specific research impacted by the altered data remains largely undisclosed, legal experts suggest the falsification could have compromised the validity of studies conducted by the receiving institutions. The penalties imposed on Yang and SynPep Corporation serve as a deterrent, underscoring the federal government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of scientific processes.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Chi C. Yang, SynPep Corporation
- State: California
- Year: 2010 (Sentencing completed)
- Violated Statutes: 18 U.S.C. 371 (Conspiracy), 18 U.S.C. 1001 (False Statements), 18 U.S.C. 1341 (Mail Fraud)
- Penalties: Dr. Yang – 8 months imprisonment, 36 months probation, $77,228 fine + $11,386 restitution. SynPep – $20,000 fine + shared restitution liability.
- Victims: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, National Institutes of Health, Walter Reed Army Hospital
- Crime: Falsification of laboratory data regarding polypeptide purity.
GrimyTimes will continue to follow any potential developments related to this case and the broader issue of scientific integrity.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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