A former senior partner at McKinsey & Company, Martin Elling, has pleaded guilty to obstructing justice in connection with his work on Purdue Pharma matters. The plea was entered in Abingdon, Virginia, following an investigation into the firm's consulting activities with opioid manufacturers.
Elling, a 60-year-old U.S. citizen residing in Bangkok, Thailand, waived his right to be indicted and admitted to destroying records with the intent to impede a U.S. Department of Justice investigation.
Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee stated that the guilty plea is a step towards holding accountable not only corporations but also executives involved in the opioid crisis. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various offices and agencies in bringing about this prosecution.
Joshua S. Levy, United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, emphasized that Elling's actions sought to undermine justice by attempting to obstruct investigations into McKinsey's work with Purdue Pharma.
George A. Scavdis from the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations highlighted that destroying records impairs law enforcement's ability to conduct investigations and endangers public health.
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares expressed satisfaction with holding those who obstructed justice accountable and stressed the importance of transparency for victims seeking truth.
Court documents revealed that McKinsey was engaged by Purdue in May 2013 for a project called "Evolve to Excellence" aimed at boosting OxyContin sales through intensified marketing strategies. Elling played a significant role as director of client services for numerous engagements between McKinsey and Purdue.
Evidence showed that Elling deleted materials related to McKinsey’s work for Purdue from his laptop and email account amid ongoing investigations into Purdue’s conduct.
Elling is scheduled for sentencing on April 4 and faces up to 20 years in prison. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys from Virginia and Massachusetts along with other legal professionals from various government divisions. The investigation involved multiple federal agencies including the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations and FBI.