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Michael J. Connors, Opioid Addiction Recovery Fraud, Tampa FL, 2024
A federal court in Tampa has ordered Michael J. Connors and several of his companies to pay a total of $7,146,046 in consumer redress and a $500,000 civil penalty for allegedly violating the Opioid Addiction Recovery Fraud Prevention Act of 2018 and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act in connection with the marketing and sale of Smoke Away products.
According to the complaint, Connors and his companies made misleading and unsubstantiated advertising claims on websites and social media platforms about the effectiveness of Smoke Away tablets, pellets, and homeopathic sprays. The defendants claimed that these products eliminate nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms and enable consumers to quit smoking quickly, easily, and permanently.
The complaint alleged that these advertising claims were misleading and unlawful because they were not supported by competent and reliable scientific evidence. The Federal Trade Commission had previously challenged Connors’ advertising of Smoke Away products in 2005, but he continued to make unsubstantiated health claims.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton said, ‘The Justice will vigorously enforce laws intended to stop deceptive advertisers — and, in particular, recidivists — from preying on consumers battling addiction.’
Director Samuel Levine of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection added, ‘Those struggling with alcohol, tobacco, or drugs deserve help and support, not phony promises.’
The stipulated order entered by the court prohibits Connors and his companies from engaging in the advertising, marketing, promoting, offering for sale, selling, or distribution of any substance use disorder treatment product or service, including any smoking cessation product or service.
Key Facts
- State: Federal
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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