The Xpress Pharmacy Direct owner C. W. Smith, and one of the worlds most prolific email spammers, was on the receiving end of more than 12 federal charges. Smith is said to have provided prescription drugs without checking for valid prescriptions.

The orders were received through spam e-mail, Internet marketing and telemarketing. Charges included conspiracy to dispense controlled substances, wire fraud, money laundering, distributing controlled drugs and selling misbranded drugs.

Federal prosecutors claim Xpress sold more than US$20 Million just from the painkiller hydrocodone in 14 months. In May, 2005 it was closed and a receiver appointed by federal court. A New Jersey doctor and a NY accountant were also charged.

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