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Wisconsin Man Admits to Smuggling Sanctioned Lab Gear to Russia, Aiding Military-Linked Firms
MADISON, Wis. – A Wisconsin resident has pleaded guilty to charges of smuggling laboratory equipment to Russian entities, directly violating U.S. trade sanctions enacted following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The plea, entered Tuesday, marks a significant development in the ongoing enforcement of international economic restrictions.
Andrew Pogosyan, a 68-year-old U.S. citizen born in Russia and residing in Madison, was formally charged in June with four counts, including conspiracy to defraud the United States and smuggling goods out of the country. Prosecutors allege that beginning in September 2022, Pogosyan utilized his company, Omega Diagnostics LLC, to facilitate the shipment of vital lab equipment to Russian businesses. Notably, one of these recipient companies was reportedly involved in chemical research for the Russian military.
The U.S.Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security implemented stringent export controls on Russia in February 2022 as a direct response to the escalating conflict in Ukraine. These regulations mandate that exporters secure special licenses for the shipment of technology and goods to Russia, particularly those with the potential to bolster the production of chemical and biological weapons.
According to federal prosecutors, Pogosyan circumvented these regulations by failing to obtain the necessary licenses. to further obscure the ultimate destination of the shipments, he allegedly routed the equipment through third-party nations, including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Latvia, and Lithuania, before they were ultimately forwarded to their intended Russian recipients.
Pogosyan is now facing a potential prison sentence of up to 35 years, with sentencing scheduled for October 7. His attorney,William Coffield,conveyed to The Associated Press that Pogosyan is a well-intentioned individual who underestimated the gravity of the sanctions. Coffield also stated that Pogosyan’s clients were primarily scientists engaged in medical and other non-military research. “He has accepted obligation,” Coffield added, “and is working to make amends.”
This report was provided by The Associated Press.
