Nationwide drug bust linked to Sooner State

By Stacey Cameron, NEWS 9

Oklahoma authorities are prosecuting one businessman who allegedly sold large quantities of two drugs often used to make methamphetamine.

Eric Organ, a New Jersey businessman, faces 21 felonies and serious prison time if convicted on state drug charges. His defense attorney said the authorities are inventing crimes to convict his client.

Prosecutors alleged Organ used his Internet pharmacy to help supply drug dealers in at least five states with ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. The two drugs are main ingredients used to cook methamphetamine.

The Oklahoma State Assistant Attorney General Joel-Lyn McCormick said the bust is a victory for the state.

"Oklahoma is the first state to file charges against Mr. Organ," McCormick said.

The federal government prepares drug cases against Organ in five states. Oklahoma took the lead, charging Organ with conspiracy, racketeering, distributing a controlled substance and selling products used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

McCormick said Organ's Web site, DNE Vitamins, is illegally selling bulk quantities of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. In the past two years, over five million tablets were shipped to convenient stores and individuals in the Sooner State.

"The quantities are being sold to the types of businesses that are likely to sell to individuals who are ultimately the manufacturers of methamphetamine," McCormick said.

Organ was arraigned in State court Thursday and released on $120,000 bail. Because he has ties to countries in Europe, Central America and the Caribbean, Organ was forced to surrender his passport.

Arkansas, Kansas, Wisconsin and New Jersey are also charging Organ.