N.J. businessman accused of making false pesticide claims about killing coronavirus

Coronavirus-eradicating drugs were reportedly misrepresented by a New Jersey dealer. Officials said James Young, 46, of Cherry Hill, Philadelphia, utilized ViaClean Technologies, LLC to market pandemic-related items with false and illegal promises.

Company advertised pesticides as virus-eradicators without approval or proof, breaking federal law. Investigations show pesticides kill bacteria, algae, and fungi, but COVID-19. Authorities stated these misleading promises put consumers at danger because they could have used substandard items during a public health crisis.

Young and his Philadelphia employee, 59-year-old Sean Storrie, are accused by federal officials of misrepresenting pesticide labels. Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act mandates accurate pesticide labeling and marketing claims with regulatory permission, which regulators stated this breaches.

Young and Storrie were charged Thursday in Philadelphia federal magistrate court. On Sept. 5, ViaClean Technologies will appear in court. Federal efforts to safeguard consumers and hold firms accountable for misleading public health practices drive the procedures.

USPSI and EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division investigated the company. Federal officials said the case illustrated how dishonest business tactics, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, can have major legal consequences.

Other companies that make false health and safety claims to profit were warned by prosecutors. They stressed the importance of preventing bogus or unlicensed items in public health crises.

Young and his company may face sanctions.

Sources:
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Philadelphia
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
United States Postal Inspection Service