Robert Zeng, Misbranding Drugs, New Jersey 2020

Utah Man Admits Illegally Selling Erectile Dysfunction Pills

NEWARK, N.J. – Robert Zeng, 55, of Salt Lake City, Utah, pleaded guilty to introducing a misbranded drug into interstate commerce with intent to defraud and mislead consumers.

Zeng was the owner of various businesses, including NutopiaUSA, which sold purported natural supplements online and through e-commerce websites.

On Feb. 29, 2020, Zeng imported three kilograms of sildenafil, an active ingredient in the brand name prescription drug Viagra, which is approved by the FDA for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Zeng used the sildenafil to manufacture an unapproved and misbranded drug named “Mr. Richard Rocks.”

He falsely marketed and labeled Mr. Richard Rocks as a dietary supplement containing only natural ingredients that treated erectile dysfunction, enhanced sexual performance, improved mood, and reduced blood sugar and cholesterol.

Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael A. Honig credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr. in Newark, and special agents of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations’ New York Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey J. Ebersole, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.

The felony misbranding charge to which Zeng pleaded guilty carries a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross pecuniary gain/loss, whichever is greater.

Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 26, 2021.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-nj/pr/utah-man-admits-illegal-sale-sexual-enhancement-drugs