Former CEO Pleads Guilty in Counterfeit Labels Case

The former CEO of Action Packing and Design, Paul Rodriguez, has pleaded guilty to trafficking in counterfeit labels and packaging, according to southern Texas acting U.S. Attorney Abe Martinez. Between 7/2015 and 12/2016, “Rodriguez intentionally trafficked in counterfeit labels and packaging by manufacturing, and then shipping to Houston, counterfeit and trademarked Frontline, Frontline Plus and Merial veterinary product labels and packaging,” the government contends. The labels and packaging were originally marketed by Merial — an animal health company located in Duluth, GA. Rodriguez also played a similar role in trafficking counterfeit Rimadyl labels, a veterinary pain product marketed by Zoetis.

Rodriguez faces up to 10 years in federal prison and up to a $2 million fine. Sentencing is set for 10/2 before U.S. District judge Nancy F. Atlas. FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations played a role in the case.