Crime Solicitors

A Surrey man who was prosecuted by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has been jailed for 12 months, after being convicted on charges of selling potentially dangerous unlicensed medicines to treat serious conditions.

Peppino Fiori, 66, of Oxted in Surrey was found to have been importing and selling potentially dangerous steroids and unlicensed medicines for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and depression.

An MHRA investigation into Fiori’s activities uncovered more than 69,000 doses of unlicensed erectile dysfunction, steroid and anti-depressant medication at his home in Surrey.

The haul had an estimated street value of nearly £210,000.

An in-depth analysis of Fiori’s computer conducted by MHRA found he had been discussing price lists, as well as how much he would get paid for each delivery he received – and the details of customers to whom he was intending to sell the medicines.

The MHRA said Fiori’s activities potentially posed a serious risk to public health as the unlicensed drugs might cause serious side effects.

After sentencing, MHRA’s Head of Enforcement, Alastair Jeffery, said:

“Selling unlicensed medicines is illegal and poses a serious health hazard.

“Unlicensed medicines can be dangerous, as they may contain impurities, incorrect ingredients – and there is no way of knowing if they are manufactured to acceptable standards of quality and safety.

“Criminals that illegally supply medical products are not interested in your health – they only care about your money.

“Taking unlicensed medical products is playing the lottery with your health.”

The MHRA advises people that if they need advice or treatment for a condition, they should visit a GP – and make sure they obtain medical products from legitimate high street outlets, or online retailers displaying the distance selling logo.

MHRA is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK – and is an executive agency of the Department of Health.

Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers

Duncan Lewis crime lawyers can advise at any stage of a charge involving drugs offences, or importing, manufacturing or selling unlicensed medications.

There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and Wales – including more than 20 offices across London and the southeast.

A Duncan Lewis solicitor can usually reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour – and Duncan Lewis is a leading provider of Legal Aid criminal defence services.

Duncan Lewis is also able to advise on Confiscation Orders under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).

For expert legal advice on drugs offences, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 0333 772 0409.

For 24-Hour help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.