José Manuel Chinea Reverón, the 43-year-old owner of Agrocentro Sabana Seca in Toa Baja, has been charged with five counts related to the possession of a controlled substance known as horse anesthesia and the illegal sale of medications. The charges were presented by the Division of Economic Crimes and include one count of violating Puerto Rico's Controlled Substances Laws and four counts of violating the Pharmacy Law of Puerto Rico. The investigation, led by Inspector Francisco Javier Soto Alicea, found that the business had medications for human and veterinary use without the necessary permits, as well as expired and improperly packaged medications.
A vial of xylazine, a controlled substance, was also found on the counter. The substance was manufactured in Argentina and imported illegally to the island. Secretary of Justice Lourdes L.
Gómez Torres stated that the sale and distribution of medications are subject to strict controls to protect public health and safety. Judge Miriam Stefan Acta found cause for arrest on all charges and imposed a $5,000 bond. The preliminary hearing is scheduled for August 27.