Tien Tan Vo, a 47-year-old doctor practicing in Imperial Valley, has recently pleaded guilty to crimes related to his years-long use of foreign unapproved and misbranded cosmetic drugs, as reported by the Department of Justice. The case exposes the dangers of using unauthorized drugs and the exploitation of trust by medical professionals.
In his plea agreement, Vo admitted to receipt of misbranded drugs in interstate commerce and being an accessory after the fact to an accomplice who smuggled these drugs into the United States from Mexico. The violations took place between November 2016 and October 2020, when Vo used unapproved injectable botulinum toxin and lip fillers in his clinics, products which were not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The products in question, “Xeomeen” and Probcel, were used by Vo for almost four years, generating $100,767 in gross receipts. As part of the plea agreement, Vo will forfeit this amount and pay a fine of $201,534, as well as restitution to the victims.
Vo bought most of his unapproved drugs and devices from a “med spa” operator in Mexicali, Mexico, who smuggled them into the United States without declaring them. This case raises concerns about the unregulated risks patients are unknowingly taking when seeking cosmetic treatments.
“All members of our community should be able to trust that their doctor is acting in their best interest,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden, who highlighted the importance of protecting patients from unapproved and potentially unsafe drugs. The prosecution intends to thwart those who would exploit patients for their financial gain, as reported by the Department of Justice.
Chad Plantz, Special Agent in Charge for HSI San Diego, emphasized the significant threat to public health posed by injecting unapproved medicines. He also stressed the need to educate people on the dangers caused by using unauthorized botulinum toxin and to thwart those who smuggle and illegally use it for cosmetic procedures.
Special Agent in Charge Robert M. Iwanicki of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Los Angeles Field Office, warned against evading FDA requirements and the distribution of unapproved drugs to U.S. consumers. The FDA requirements ensure patients receive safe and effective medical treatments, and efforts will continue to hold accountable those who traffic in unapproved drugs.
Sentencing for Vo is set for November 16, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Allison H. Goddard. Potential victims related to this case may provide or request information by emailing [email protected].
