Stephen Matthew Schumaker, Misbranding Pesticidal Device, Georgia 2020

Atlanta, GA – Stephen Matthew Schumaker of Georgia was sentenced to 24 months of probation and ordered to pay $9,300 in fines after being convicted of defrauding consumers with false claims about an air purifier’s ability to kill viruses, including COVID-19. The case, investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), revealed a scheme targeting thousands of Georgia residents during the height of the pandemic.

According to court documents, Schumaker aggressively marketed the “Beyond Guardian Air” purifier with unsubstantiated assertions that the device could eliminate “every major viral and bacterial infection” within homes. These claims, made to capitalize on widespread public fear surrounding the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, were demonstrably false and violated federal regulations governing the sale of pesticidal devices.

The EPA’s investigation determined that the Beyond Guardian Air purifier was not only ineffective at delivering on its promised capabilities, but also constituted a misbranded pesticidal device. Federal law requires rigorous testing and registration for any device claiming to kill or mitigate pests – including viruses and bacteria. Schumaker failed to obtain the necessary approvals before marketing the purifier and making health claims, effectively selling a product under false pretenses.

“This case highlights the dangers of false advertising, particularly during a public health crisis,” stated a representative from the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division. “Consumers rely on accurate information when making decisions about products that impact their health and safety. Mr. Schumaker exploited that trust for personal gain, and his actions will not be tolerated.” The investigation was prompted by numerous consumer complaints and concerns raised about the purifier’s efficacy.

Schumaker’s actions violated sections 7 U.S.C. 136l(b)(1)(B) and 7 U.S.C. 136j(a)(1)(F) of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). These statutes regulate the registration, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides and pesticidal devices in the United States. The penalties for violating FIFRA can include substantial fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.

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Key Facts

Defendant: Stephen Matthew Schumaker
State: Georgia
Year: 2020
Crime: Fraudulent marketing of an air purifier with false claims about its ability to kill viruses, including COVID-19.
Device: Beyond Guardian Air purifier
Violated Laws: 7 U.S.C. 136l(b)(1)(B), 7 U.S.C. 136j(a)(1)(F) – Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)
Penalty: 24 months probation and $9,300 fine.

The case serves as a warning to others who might attempt to profit from public fear by making unsubstantiated health claims. The EPA continues to prioritize enforcement actions against those who violate federal pesticide laws and endanger public health. Consumers are encouraged to report suspected violations to the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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