Los Angeles, CA – Integral Hygienic Solutions, Inc., doing business as TruClean, has been sentenced following a federal investigation into the company’s fraudulent marketing of an unregistered disinfectant product. The company and its key personnel falsely claimed their product, TruClean 365, provided year-long protection against viruses, including COVID-19, after a single application. The scheme, which unfolded during the height of the pandemic in 2020, generated over $800,000 in illicit profits.
According to court documents, TruClean circumvented federal regulations by purchasing generic chemical products from an East Coast supplier and relabeling them under the TruClean brand. The company then aggressively marketed the product via social media and its website, falsely asserting that the EPA had validated its year-long efficacy claims through “rigorous testing.” In reality, TruClean never submitted the product for proper EPA registration, a critical requirement for any substance marketed as a disinfectant or pesticide.
The EPA’s regulations mandate that all products intended to kill viruses and bacteria are registered as pesticides. This process ensures the product’s safety and effectiveness. By selling an unregistered pesticide, TruClean not only defrauded consumers but also potentially endangered public health by offering a product whose claims were never vetted by the agency. Investigators found no evidence supporting the company’s claims of year-long protection, raising concerns about the product’s actual disinfecting capabilities.
Sentencing and Restitution
On June 2, 2023, the court handed down sentences to the company and its principals. Integral Hygienic Solutions, Inc. was sentenced to five years of probation, a $525 assessment, and ordered to pay $823,669.31 in joint and several restitution. Ray Louis Smith Jr. and Ramont Joseph Smith, both key figures in the operation, each received five years probation, the same restitution amount, and a $25 assessment. Ramont Smith was additionally required to complete 200 hours of community service within the first two years of his probation, while Ray Smith must complete 50 hours. Both individuals are also mandated to disclose their financial records to probation officials.
Legal Violations
The case hinged on violations of 18 U.S.C. 1343 (Wire Fraud) and 7 U.S.C. 136j(a)(1)(A) (Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act – Sale of Unregistered Pesticide). The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) is a crucial piece of legislation designed to regulate the sale and distribution of pesticides, ensuring they are safe and effective when used according to label directions. The wire fraud charge stems from the use of electronic communications – website and social media marketing – to facilitate the fraudulent scheme.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Integral Hygienic Solutions, Inc. (dba TruClean)
- Crime: Fraudulent marketing of an unregistered disinfectant and wire fraud.
- Location: California
- Year: 2023
- False Claims: TruClean 365 allegedly provided year-long protection against viruses, including COVID-19.
- Illicit Profits: Over $800,000 in sales of the unregistered pesticide.
- Penalties: Five years probation for the company and principals, $823,669.31 restitution, and community service.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of fraudulent claims, especially during public health crises. The EPA continues to actively investigate and prosecute companies that attempt to profit from unsubstantiated claims regarding disinfectant products, protecting consumers and safeguarding public health.
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
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