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# FDA Probe Leads to Arrest of Canadian Drug Importation Executive
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/fda-probe-leads-to-arrest-of-canadian-drug-importation-executive/
- Published: 2026-11-11T23:52:55.000Z
- Updated: 2026-11-11T23:52:55.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Drugs

A senior executive of Canadian prescription drug supplier CANARX has been arrested on federal charges involving an alleged scheme to illegally import prescription drugs into the U.S., according to [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/11/11/canarx-official-arrested-drug-importation.html?ref=fdaweb.com). **John Thomas Howard**, the company's treasurer and a director, was arrested Sunday on charges including smuggling, conspiracy, introducing misbranded drugs into interstate commerce and illegal drug importation. His brother, CANARX president **Bob Howard**, is also wanted by federal authorities but has not been taken into custody, CNBC reported.

An affidavit by FDA Office of Criminal Investigations special agent **Dustin Dobbs** alleges that CANARX illegally imported or facilitated the importation of prescription drugs into the U.S. The criminal complaint covers conduct from 2/2017 through 4/2026.

The Windsor, Ontario-based company supplies lower-cost prescription medications sourced from foreign countries to U.S. patients through employer-sponsored programs.

FDA previously issued CANARX a [2019 warning letter](https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/warning-letters/canarx-services-inc-554740-02262019?ref=fdaweb.com), alleging that the company substituted unapproved foreign drugs for FDA-approved medications prescribed by U.S. healthcare providers, potentially exposing patients to safety risks.

CANARX general counsel **Joseph Morris** told CNBC that the Howard brothers deny the charges, intend to defend themselves vigorously and expect to be vindicated.

The company also faces a separate civil lawsuit brought by Gilead Sciences alleging illegal importation of its HIV treatment Biktarvy.