Metabolife Owner, Wife Face Weapon Charges

SAN DIEGO -- The owner of San Diego-based Metabolife International Inc. and his wife are free on bail after pleading not guilty to federal weapons charges.

Michael Lee Blevins and Danica Marie Blevins pleaded not guilty to the charges Monday in a hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Louisa Porter.

According to a 12-count indictment, Michael Blevins got his wife to buy a Ruger .357-caliber revolver, a Remington 12-gauge shotgun, a Weatherby .30-06 rifle and 500 rounds of ammunition for their joint possession and use.

Danica Blevins also pleaded not guilty to three counts of making a false statement in an application to purchase a firearm.

Michael Blevins, whose firm produces weight loss supplements, is charged with five counts. His wife faces eight charges. Each count carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $25,000 fine.

Danica Blevins used her parents' address when buying the guns to avoid disclosing that she was living with a convicted felon, according to the indictment.

Michael Blevins was convicted in 1988 of conspiracy to make, possess and distribute methamphetamine, according to the indictment.

U.S. Attorney Carol Lam said the charges were brought under the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, which requires background checks on anyone trying to buy a gun.

Michael Blevins was released on $1 million bail and his wife on $100,000 bail. Both are due in court Oct. 14 for a pretrial hearing.