Denver, CO. — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announced that Ameen Alai, also known as Adam Powars, 52, of Broomfield, has been sentenced to 48 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to distributing a controlled substance that led to a fatal overdose.
Alai admitted to distributing a mixture containing ibogaine, a psychedelic compound derived from the Tabernanthe iboga plant. Ibogaine is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law, meaning it has no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.
Between April 2019 and March 2021, Alai promoted ibogaine as a means to “reset” the body’s receptors to overcome addiction. In March 2021, he supplied the drug to a person in Broomfield and supervised its use. After leaving the individual unattended, Alai returned to find the person unresponsive — the court later determined the ibogaine he provided caused the victim’s death.
“This sentence underscores the devastating impact of illegal drug trafficking while also serving as a reminder that those who profit from poisoning our communities will be held accountable,” said DEA Rocky Mountain Special Agent in Charge David S. Olesky. “If someone knowingly and intentionally distributes a controlled substance that results in death, we will seek justice.”
U.S. Attorney Peter McNeilly added, “As the tragic results of Mr. Alai’s conduct make clear, ibogaine is dangerous. We want the public to know that taking ibogaine can have deadly consequences.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alyssa C. Mance and Michael F. Houlihan, and U.S. District Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney presided over the sentencing.
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