A federal judge in Miami has handed down lengthy prison sentences to four individuals who conspired to defraud the United States by distributing an unapproved and misbranded drug. Jonathan Grenon, 37, and Jordan Grenon, 29, were sentenced to 122 years in prison, while Mark Grenon, 66, and Joseph Grenon, 36, received sentences of 60 months. The defendants were found guilty by a federal jury after a trial earlier this year.
The defendants, all residents of Bradenton, Florida, manufactured, promoted, and sold a product called Miracle Mineral Solution (MMS). This chemical solution contained sodium chlorite and water, which, when ingested, turned into chlorine dioxide, a powerful bleach commonly used in industrial water treatment and bleaching textiles, pulp, and paper. The defendants falsely claimed that MMS could treat, prevent, and cure COVID-19.
It is important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had not approved MMS for the treatment of COVID-19 or any other use. In fact, the FDA had warned consumers not to purchase or use MMS, as it is essentially the same as drinking bleach and can cause serious side effects, including severe vomiting, diarrhea, and life-threatening low blood pressure. There have been reports of hospitalizations, life-threatening conditions, and even deaths associated with the consumption of MMS.
Prior to marketing MMS as a COVID-19 cure, the defendants touted it as a miracle cure-all for various serious diseases and disorders, such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and leukemia. Despite the lack of FDA approval for these claims, the defendants sold tens of thousands of bottles of MMS nationwide, including to consumers in South Florida. To evade government regulation and prosecution, the defendants created the Genesis II Church of Health and Healing, which they described as a “non-religious church.” However, it was clear that this entity was solely created to legalize the use of MMS and avoid legal consequences. The defendants received over $1 million from the sale of MMS.
Furthermore, Jonathan and Jordan Grenon were found guilty of criminal contempt of court for willfully violating court orders and continuing to distribute MMS despite being ordered to cease its distribution. The defendants even threatened the federal judge presiding over the civil case, claiming that they would resort to violence if the government tried to enforce the court’s orders. These threats included references to the infamous Waco siege.
During the trial, the jury was presented with evidence of the defendants’ manufacturing operation, which was located in a dilapidated shed in Jonathan Grenon’s backyard in Bradenton, Florida. The photos and videos showed thousands of pounds of sodium chlorite powder, thousands of bottles of MMS, and other items used in the production and distribution of MMS. The chemical drums containing sodium chlorite powder were labeled as toxic, flammable, and highly dangerous to consume.
The sentencing of the defendants sends a clear message that the distribution of unapproved and dangerous drugs will not be tolerated. It underscores the importance of FDA approval and the potential harm that can result from the misuse of substances that claim to be miraculous cures for serious diseases.
It is crucial for the public to remain vigilant and informed about FDA-approved treatments and to consult healthcare professionals for proper guidance in addressing health concerns. Drinking substances like MMS, which have not undergone rigorous testing and evaluation, can have severe and potentially life-threatening consequences.
