Syracuse, NY – Martin Kimber, a 60-year-old former pharmacist, was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison on September 19, 2013, following his guilty plea to charges stemming from a deliberate contamination of the Albany Medical Center with mercury. Kimber systematically spread the highly toxic substance throughout the hospital over a period of months, motivated by a dispute over medical bills. The case, investigated by a multi-agency task force, highlighted a disturbing instance of intentional endangerment and a blatant disregard for public safety.
The attacks began in March 2011 and continued through March 2012. Kimber strategically deposited mercury in various locations within the hospital, including the basement, hallways, triage areas, and even within the cafeteria, contaminating food items like apples, bananas, and prepared chicken. Emergency response teams were repeatedly called to decontaminate affected areas, requiring extensive resources and posing a significant risk to hospital staff and patients. The defendant, leveraging his professional knowledge as a pharmacist, understood the severe health risks associated with mercury exposure, including neurological damage, kidney failure, and even death.
Prosecutors presented evidence demonstrating that Kimber’s actions were not impulsive, but rather a calculated attempt to disrupt hospital operations and inflict economic harm. He expressed dissatisfaction with the medical care he received and believed the hospital had overcharged him. Following the discovery of mercury in the cafeteria, investigators traced the source back to Kimber, uncovering two canisters of the substance stored in his vehicle and at his residence. A subsequent search of his computer revealed searches for additional sources of mercury, further solidifying the intent behind his actions.
Legal Ramifications and Penalties
Kimber was convicted under federal law for using a toxic chemical as a weapon and tampering with consumer products. Specifically, he violated laws related to the intentional introduction of a hazardous substance into interstate commerce, creating a substantial risk of death or serious bodily injury. The penalties for these offenses are severe, carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. In addition to his 14-year prison term, Kimber was ordered to pay $200,451.48 in restitution to the Albany Medical Center to cover the costs of decontamination and investigation. He also forfeited his home and vehicle.
Investigation and Cooperation
The investigation involved a collaborative effort between the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Law enforcement officials praised the seamless coordination between agencies and the dedication of the investigative teams. The case underscores the importance of interagency cooperation in addressing complex threats to public health and safety. Furthermore, authorities discovered child pornography on Kimber’s computer, adding another layer of criminal activity to his offenses.
United States Attorney Richard S. Hartunian emphasized the seriousness of Kimber’s crimes, stating that his actions were a clear case of criminal conduct that threatened the health and safety of countless individuals. Officials from the EPA and FDA echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of holding accountable those who intentionally endanger the public through the misuse of hazardous substances. The sentencing serves as a stark warning that such actions will not be tolerated and will be met with the full force of the law.
Key Facts
- Defendant: Martin S. Kimber
- Crime: Use of a toxic chemical (mercury) as a weapon & tampering with consumer products
- Location: Albany Medical Center, Albany, New York
- Motivation: Dispute over medical bills
- Timeline: Attacks occurred between March 2011 and March 2012
- Sentence: 14 years in prison, $200,451.48 restitution, forfeiture of property
- Agencies Involved: EPA, FBI, FDA
- Additional Crime: Possession of child pornography
Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database
Related Federal Cases
- Martin J. Gruenberg, Workplace Culture Misconduct, Washington D.C.,… · New York
- Willie Mitchell, Bank Fraud, Phoenix AZ, 2023 · New York
- Dr. John Doe Sentenced to 2+ Years for Bribery, O.C. CA, 2024 · Ohio
- Ex-Chairman John Smith, Ran $250M Securities Fraud Scheme, New York… · Ohio
- Robert Lee, Lying to Federal Investigators, South Florida, 2023 · New York
