Internet Outlet Operator Convicted, Faces Prison Time

July 22, 2010 2:56 PM

Convicted of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and other charges related to an Internet drug outlet scheme, David Allen Vogel forfeited over $29 million and could face more than 20 years in federal prison. According to a Department of Justice press release, from August 2000 to November 2007, Vogel, the owner and operator of Madison Pain Clinic, and his co-conspirators operated an Internet-based pharmacy through which they distributed millions of hydrocodone pills and other controlled substances without requiring valid prescriptions. A superseding indictment, filed on August 13, 2009, charged Vogel and three others with federal drug and money laundering violations. On June 30, 2010, Vogel was found guilty by a jury following an eight-day trial and faces up to five years in federal prison on the drug conspiracy charge, up to 20 years in federal prison on the money laundering conspiracy charge, and up to 10 years for each of the money laundering charges. A sentencing date has not been set. Co-defendants Jonathan C. Vogel and Carrie L. Demers pleaded guilty on December 22, 2009, and are awaiting sentencing. Joseph A. Geraci remains a fugitive. Two others also face sentences related to the Internet outlet scheme.