Utah Doctor Faces Federal Trial Over Alleged COVID-19 Vaccine Fraud Scheme

SALT LAKE CITY – Dr. Michael Kirk Moore Jr., a 58-year-old plastic surgeon from Salt Lake City, Utah, is currently facing a federal trial on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States, alongside allegations of destroying government-provided COVID-19 vaccines and issuing fraudulent vaccination record cards. The trial, which began with jury selection on Monday, July 7, 2025, has drawn significant public and political attention.

Federal prosecutors allege that Dr. Moore and his co-defendants, including two employees and a neighbor, operated a scheme from the Plastic Surgery Institute of Utah. They are accused of discarding approximately $28,000 worth of COVID-19 vaccine doses and distributing nearly 2,000 fake vaccination cards, often in exchange for cash payments or donations. Additionally, it is alleged that saline shots were administered to children at their parents' request, to create the false impression of vaccination.

The case has become a focal point for critics of COVID-19 vaccine mandates, with supporters rallying outside the courthouse. Republican lawmakers, including Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz, have publicly backed Dr. Moore, portraying him as a "hero" who protected individuals from what they term "tyrannical" government overreach. On July 9, 2025, Dr. Eithan Haim, a vocal supporter, tweeted, "He's one of the most honorable people I've ever met. And our government is trying to send him to prison. Absolutely shameful. Good that MTG standing up and doing the right thing." This refers to Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has also called for the Department of Justice to drop the charges, arguing the COVID vaccine "kills and injures people."

The Department of Justice filed the indictment in 2023, asserting that Dr. Moore's actions endangered public health and undermined trust in federal healthcare programs. Dr. Moore faces a potential sentence of up to 35 years in federal prison if convicted. The trial is expected to last 15 days, presided over by U.S. District Judge Howard Nielson.