After recent reports that infamous "pharma bro" Martin Shkreli was running his pharmaceutical company from behind bars using a contraband cellphone, the U.S. Bureau of Prisons is investigating, according to The Wall Street Journal.
"When there are allegations of misconduct, they are thoroughly investigated, and appropriate action is taken if such allegations are proven true," the Bureau of Prisons told the newspaper. "This allegation is currently under investigation."
Mr. Shkreli gained notoriety for inflating the price of a lifesaving anti-infection drug more than fiftyfold. The move, paired with his lack of remorse, earned Mr. Shkreli the nickname "pharma bro."
Mr. Shkrel, who is serving a seven-year prison sentence for defrauding investors, is just 16 months into his sentence. The fraud is unrelated his hiking of the drug price.
The Wall Street Journal reported last week that even from behind bars, he continues to call the shots at Phoenixus AG, the rebranded name of his pharmaceutical company.
While incarcerated, Mr. Shkreli reportedly called his handpicked chief executive to fire him, phoned in advice to company officials and tried to buy shares from existing shareholders.
Controlling a business and having a cellphone while serving a prison sentence is illegal. If convicted, Mr. Shkreli could receive another year in prison and a fine.
Read the full report here.