Florida Family Accused of Selling Bleach As COVID-19 Cure Goes On Trial

A Florida family who took advantage of desperate COVID-19 patients is finally on trial. 

Father Mark Grenon, 65, and his sons, 37-year-old Jonathan, 35-year-old Joseph, and 29-year-old Jordan, conspired to sell a lethal bleach concoction to people suffering from the virus. During the pandemic, they touted the dangerous liquid as a cure for COVID-19, preying on terrified people looking for relief for themselves and their loved ones. The men used their online faith platform, Genesis II Church of Health and Healing, to sell the product, known as Miracle Mineral Solution.

The clan of crooks maintained that their solution could cure 95% of known ailments, including cancer and HIV/AIDS. Instead, they sold chlorine dioxide, which is unsafe for human consumption. ABC News confirmed that the substance, which turns to bleach when drank, is commonly seen in textile and industrial water treatments. Before the con artists were apprehended, they were ordered by a judge to cease their operation. When they refused, the men were charged with conspiring to defraud the United States and deliver misbranded drugs. Mark and Joseph Grenon went on the run, avoiding jail time by hiding in Colombia. They were eventually tracked down and returned to the United States. Jonathan and Jordan Grenon chose to stay in Florida and were caught in Bradenton. Authorities say the men brought in over $1 million from the scam, shipping it to over 10,000 Florida customers. 

Oddly enough, the Grenons did not retain lawyers for their high-profile case. Instead, they are representing themselves, despite facing years behind bars. Each has pleaded not guilty.