https://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/regulatory/blackstone-labs-co-founder-faces-potential-bond-revocationFederal prosecutors on Tuesday requested a judge revoke the bond conditions of Aaron Singerman, a co-founder of sports supplement brand Blackstone Labs, just two weeks before he is scheduled to be sentenced for his role in the sale of illegal products marketed as dietary supplements.
Citing a probation report and conversation with a probation officer, U.S. Department of Justice lawyers expressed concern regarding Singerman’s “escalating irresponsible and dangerous behavior.”
Singerman was arrested in November for boating under the influence, which resulted in the suspension of his driver’s license and a new bond condition consistent with the latter restriction, according to the Jan. 11 court filing.
But on Jan. 7, “in flagrant violation of this court’s order and Florida law, and with total disregard for public safety, the defendant illegally drove a car, while admittedly under the influence of sleeping medication, and had a car accident,” prosecutors wrote.The government requested immediate revocation of Singerman’s bond, as well as an order that he be held without bond, pending sentencing.
Singerman’s lawyer, James Durham, opposed the motion, according to prosecutors’ court filing. Durham did not immediately respond to an email from Natural Products Insider.
Singerman, who also founded RedCon1, a sports supplement company, is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 27.
“While the sentencing is two weeks away, it is apparent that the current conditions of his release are insufficient, and that the safety of both the public and the defendant are at immediate risk,” wrote prosecutors, who requested the court allow them to appear by Zoom at any hearing regarding their motion.
After prosecutors filed their request, a motion hearing was set for Thursday, Jan. 13, at 10:00 a.m. in the West Palm Beach Division in the U.S. District for the Southern District of Florida before Magistrate Judge William Matthewman. Singerman was ordered to appear in person, and if he fails to do so, a warrant will be issued for his arrest, according to a court notice. The notice said the hearing will not be continued.
Singerman and Blackstone Labs co-founder Phillip (“PJ”) Braun each face up to 13 years in prison in connection with their guilty pleas to two criminal counts in a 14-count indictment: introduction of unapproved new drugs into interstate commerce with intent to defraud and mislead, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge William Dimitrouleas is responsible for handing out any sentences to Braun and Singerman, as well as other defendants in the criminal case.
All of the defendants have pleaded guilty or, in the case of one former employee of Blackstone Labs, been convicted following a jury trial.
