Ryan Kralik, Intent to Distribute Synthetic Drugs, Cleveland OH, 2023

CLEVELAND, OH – Two Northeast Ohio residents are facing federal charges after a grand jury indictment revealed a sophisticated operation distributing dangerous synthetic drugs known as “bath salts.” Ryan Kralik, 32, of Newton Falls, and Ruth Eimers, 36, of Ravenna, are accused of running a large-scale conspiracy with intent to distribute these illicit substances, according to U.S. Attorney Steven M. Dettelbach.

The pair allegedly operated a website, freshsalts.com, offering between 10 and 15 different types of bath salts for sale at prices ranging from $29 to $59. Bulk purchases were also available, costing between $299 and $459, according to the indictment. But don’t be fooled by the name; these aren’t for relaxation. Authorities say the products are marketed with names deliberately mimicking street drugs, including “Eightballz Extreme,” “Faux-Caine,” and “Zombie Girls Extra Strength.”

“People continue to come up with new ways to poison our children, as long as they think there is money to be made,” Dettelbach stated bluntly. “These are very dangerous synthetic drugs that have nothing to do with baths or salt and everything to do with risky behavior.” Customers paid for the drugs using money orders, cashier’s checks made out to “R.M. Kralik,” Western Union wire transfers to “Ryan Kralik” in Warren, Ohio, or cash sent to a P.O. Box under the alias “FGS” in Diamond, Ohio, the indictment details.

Federal investigators say Eimers assisted Kralik with the logistical side of the operation, handling distribution shipments and bookkeeping. William Hayes, acting special agent in charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), emphasized the gravity of the situation. “These indictments deal a blow to the individuals and criminal groups involved in the distribution of a dangerous synthetic drug in Northeast Ohio…HSI is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help keep this poison off the streets.”

The defendants are charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and distribution of bath salts, Schedule I controlled substance analogues and a Schedule I controlled substance; importation of bath salts, a controlled substance analogue, from the People’s Republic of China; attempted possession with the intent to distribute bath salts, a controlled substance analogue; use of the Internet for a controlled substance offense; distribution of bath salts, Schedule I controlled substance analogues; and possession with the intent to distribute bath salts, Schedule I controlled substance analogues. Portage County Sheriff David Doak added, “The sale of bath salts is not going to be tolerated. We were glad to be part of this investigation.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Dirksen is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by HSI, the Portage County Drug Task Force, and the Portage County Sheriff’s Office. While an indictment represents a significant step, authorities caution that it is only an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, sentencing will be determined by the court, taking into account factors such as criminal history and the specific details of the offenses. Statutory maximums apply, but sentences are often less severe.