Probe Reveals Fraudulent Practices (Image Credits: Foodsafetynews.com)
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania – Two individuals faced criminal charges following the discovery of fake USDA inspection labels on uninspected meat products sold from a local farm.
Probe Reveals Fraudulent Practices
Authorities launched an investigation in July 2025 after Pennsylvania State Police received a report about suspicious USDA stickers at Rocky Hill Meats along Big Spring Road in Newville.[1][2]
Investigators from the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service and the USDA Office of Inspector General joined state troopers in September to examine the site. The effort uncovered evidence that non-federally inspected beef had received counterfeit marks, allowing sales across multiple states. Business records confirmed ongoing distribution of the products.[3]
Key Figures in the Alleged Operation
Thomas McElwee III, 44, served as co-owner of the farm, while Angelia Kuhn, 35, worked as an employee. Both residents of Newville stood accused of orchestrating the use of bogus labels.[1]
Prosecutors linked McElwee to the scheme through witness accounts and his direct involvement. Kuhn drew scrutiny after searchers found two counterfeit stickers in her purse on the farm’s second floor. She offered inconsistent explanations during questioning, according to court documents.[2]
Seized Items Point to Manufacturing
A search of a shared garage closet on the first floor yielded 10 white and five pink mold-making components designed to produce the fake USDA marks. These tools enabled the application of deceptive stamps on meat packaging.[1]
The affiant in the charging documents noted that witness statements, combined with the physical evidence and sales records, supported claims of knowing possession and use of the counterfeits. State police emphasized that the pair allegedly created and applied the stickers to misrepresent the meat as federally approved.[3]
- Two counterfeit USDA stickers recovered from Kuhn’s purse.
- 15 mold-making components (10 white, 5 pink) in garage closet.
- Business records documenting interstate meat sales.
- Witness testimonies implicating both suspects.
Court Proceedings Underway
Angelia Kuhn appeared for arraignment before Magisterial District Judge John Hanner and secured release on $10,000 unsecured bail. Her preliminary hearing remained scheduled for April 2.[2]
Thomas McElwee had not yet faced arraignment at the time of reports. The Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office pursued charges of forgery, deceptive business practices, and trademark counterfeiting against both.[1]
Critical Role of Genuine USDA Marks
USDA inspection labels assure consumers that meat undergoes rigorous federal oversight for safety and quality. Products bearing these marks must pass standards set by the Food Safety and Inspection Service.[1]
Fake labels undermine this system, potentially exposing buyers to unverified products. The case highlighted vulnerabilities in custom meat operations, where state exemptions sometimes apply but federal marks require full compliance.
- Counterfeit labels allowed uninspected beef to enter interstate commerce.
- Investigation involved multi-agency effort starting in mid-2025.
- Charges focus on forgery and consumer deception, with proceedings ongoing.
This incident served as a stark reminder of the trust placed in official food markings. Consumers rely on them to avoid health risks from substandard meat. How do you check labels before purchase? Tell us in the comments.
