Kurt Walter Donsbach, 75, of Bonita, will be sentenced Friday, March 4, after pleading guilty to five counts of selling misbranded nutritional supplements to people who heard his former radio show.
Donsbach also pleaded guilty to grand theft, attempted grand theft and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The latter charge involves a federal conviction for smuggling illegal medicine across the border in 1996.
Although Donsbach faces a maximum term of 13 years in state prison, he will likely be placed on probation with restrictions, said San Diego Superior Court Judge Charles Rogers.
Donsbach, who no longer runs his radio show, remains free on $250,000 bond. He used to operate a business on Main Street in Chula Vista.
Donsbach admitted that he sold misbranded drugs that contained steroids to Anita Soos, 61, who later developed severe bone density loss due to prolonged use.
Donsbach admitted that when he sold misbranded drugs to people, he did so with an intent to mislead them.
Donsbach did not use an M.D. after his name, but referred to himself as a doctor with a Ph.D. His Web site described him as “a world-renowned pioneer of alternative health.”
Donsbach said he sold 15 million booklets and nutrition books.
