Uriel Everardo Medina, Conspiracy to Defraud the United States, California 2020

SACRAMENTO, CA – Uriel Everardo Medina has completed a one-year probationary sentence and paid $1,200 in restitution to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) following his arrest in May 2020 attempting to smuggle illegal pesticides into the United States. The case, prosecuted under Title 18 of the U.S. Criminal Code, highlights a growing trend of illicit pesticide use connected to illegal marijuana cultivation operations across the country.

Medina was apprehended while attempting to cross the border with ten liters of Bovitraz, a pesticide not approved for use in the United States. Investigators with the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division (CID) determined the pesticide was destined for use on clandestine marijuana grows, frequently located on both public and private lands. These unregulated grows pose significant environmental risks, including water contamination, wildlife harm, and soil degradation – all exacerbated by the use of prohibited chemicals like Bovitraz.

The use of unapproved pesticides is a common practice among illegal marijuana cultivators seeking to maximize yields and circumvent regulations. Bovitraz, commonly used in Mexico, is known to be highly toxic and poses serious health risks to both those applying it and consumers of the contaminated product. The EPA has increasingly focused on disrupting the supply chain of these illegal pesticides, working in conjunction with Customs and Border Protection to intercept shipments and prosecute those involved.

“This case is emblematic of a larger problem we’re seeing nationwide,” stated an EPA CID agent speaking on background. “Illegal marijuana grows are not just a law enforcement issue; they’re an environmental crime. The irresponsible use of these pesticides causes lasting damage to our ecosystems and endangers public health. We are committed to pursuing those who profit from these illicit operations.”

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Legal Ramifications

Medina was convicted of violating 18 U.S.C. 371, which pertains to conspiracy to defraud the United States. Specifically, the charge relates to conspiring to introduce an unapproved pesticide into interstate commerce with the intent to deceive. While Medina received a relatively light sentence of one year’s probation and $1,200 in restitution, federal prosecutors have indicated they will pursue harsher penalties in similar cases, particularly those involving larger quantities of illegal pesticides or evidence of widespread environmental damage.

Key Facts

Defendant: Uriel Everardo Medina
Crime: Pesticide Smuggling/Conspiracy to Defraud the U.S.
State: California
Year of Sentencing: 2021 (arrest in 2020)
Pesticide Involved: Bovitraz (illegal in the U.S.)
Statute Violated: 18 U.S.C. 371
Penalty: One year probation, $1,200 restitution
Connection: Linked to illegal marijuana cultivation

The EPA continues to urge the public to report any suspected illegal marijuana grow operations or the use of unapproved pesticides. Information can be submitted through the EPA’s online reporting tool or by contacting local law enforcement.

Source: EPA ECHO Enforcement Case Database

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