Peptide Pushers: Illinois Man Indicted in $397K Scheme

PITTSBURGH, PA – Adam F. Higdon, 40, of Palatine, Illinois, is facing serious federal charges after a grand jury indictment on March 26, 2013, revealed a sophisticated scheme to illegally distribute prescription peptides, United States Attorney David J. Hickton announced today. The indictment alleges Higdon ran a lucrative operation catering to bodybuilders seeking muscle enhancement – and skirting the law in the process.

The three-count indictment details charges of mail fraud, misbranding of drugs, and money laundering. According to prosecutors, Higdon operated two websites where he peddled these peptides – chemical compounds requiring a legitimate prescription. But Higdon wasn’t filling prescriptions. Instead, he falsely claimed the substances were “for research use only…not for human consumption,” a blatant attempt to deceive both his internet service provider and the Food and Drug Administration.

The scheme wasn’t small-time. Between January 2010 and January 2011, Higdon allegedly funneled $131,472.50 to suppliers in the Peoples Republic of China to acquire the peptides. He then flipped those substances, raking in a hefty $397,662.00 in sales. This profit, authorities claim, is the fruit of illegal activity and the basis for the money laundering charge.

If convicted on all counts, Higdon could face a lengthy prison sentence. The mail fraud charge carries a maximum of 20 years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The misbranding charge is punishable by up to three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. And the money laundering count carries the most severe potential penalty: 20 years behind bars and a $500,000 fine. However, the actual sentence will be determined by Federal Sentencing Guidelines, taking into account the severity of the crimes and Higdon’s criminal history, if any.

Assistant United States Attorney Leo M. Dillon is leading the prosecution. The case is a collaborative effort, stemming from investigations by agents with the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, IRS – Criminal Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). These agencies worked together to untangle Higdon’s web of deceit and bring the charges to light.

It’s crucial to remember that an indictment is simply an accusation. Higdon is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. But the evidence presented suggests a calculated effort to profit from the illegal distribution of potentially dangerous substances, exploiting a loophole and putting users at risk. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.