California Man Sentenced for Selling “Gas Station Heroin” to Massachusetts Residents Online

By Patrick Wilson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. ,Feb. 16, 2024:  A California man was sentenced to two years in prison and ordered to pay over $1.83 million in forfeiture for selling a dangerous, illegal drug disguised as a mood enhancer online. Ryan M. Stabile, 37, of Pasadena, sold tianeptine, known as “gas station heroin,” to Massachusetts residents through his company “Supplements for Work” for several years, generating over $2.2 million in illegal profits.

Tianeptine: Unapproved, Addictive, and Dangerous

Tianeptine is not approved for use in the United States and carries significant health risks, including addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and even death. While it’s used for depression treatment in some countries, the FDA warns against its consumption due to its opioid-like effects.

Stabile’s Deception and Illegal Operation

Stabile marketed tianeptine as a mood and cognitive enhancer, falsely claiming it was for research purposes while targeting individuals for personal use. He smuggled the drug from China in bulk, repackaged it in various sizes, and sold it online at prices ranging from $55 to $175. Despite facing federal charges, Stabile continued selling under a different company name even after his indictment.

Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Drug Sales

Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy condemned Stabile’s actions, highlighting the dangers of misbranded and illegal drugs smuggled from overseas. He emphasized the commitment to hold such individuals accountable.

** This piece was created with the help of ai.