Michigan man accused of selling fake Xanax and other drugs on dark web, officials say

(CBS DETROIT) – A Michigan man faces up to 20 years in prison for allegedly selling fake Xanax pills and other counterfeit medications on the dark web.

Erik Miller, 47, of Sturgis, was charged with sale of counterfeit drugs, conspiracy to distribute Xanax and MDMA, possession of MDMA and methamphetamine with intent to distribute and felon in possession of firearms.

According to an indictment, Miller was working with a dark web vendor to distribute illegal controlled substances, real prescription drugs and fake Xanax pills that were made to look like authentic pills manufactured by Pharmacia & Upjohn, Co., a division of Pfizer. .

Fake medications may have no active ingredient, have the wrong active ingredient, or have the correct ingredient but in the wrong amount. They could also contain deadly amounts of fentanyl or methamphetamine, which authorities say is especially dangerous because, most of the time, these pills look just like regular prescription pills.

“Taking a fake pill is a game of Russian roulette,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “A pill can kill.” He continued: “Only take prescription medications prescribed by a trusted medical professional and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. Never trust your own eyes to determine if a pill is legitimate. If you have any doubt, DON’T. And spread the word voice to your children, loved ones and friends.”

Authorities say people were purchasing these pills on the dark web, which is an area of ​​the Internet often used to traffic counterfeit drugs and contraband and also where traffickers try to hide their identities.

“The dark web provides a false sense of security,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene. “Drug traffickers believe they can hide behind a computer keyboard and distribute drugs anonymously, but that is not the case. No matter what means criminals use to distribute their deadly products; we will employ all resources to track down anyone that places profits over lives.”

If Miller is convicted of the drug trafficking charges, he faces a $1,000,000 fine and up to 20 years in prison.