Ed Buck, a wealthy political activist and Democratic donor, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for supplying and personally injecting methamphetamine into gay men in exchange for sex, resulting in two deaths and numerous overdoses.
Buck, 67, was found guilty on all 9 counts in July by a federal jury, which included running a drug house, distributing methamphetamine, and luring men to travel for prostitution.
Buck’s sentencing on Thursday brings an end to a long saga in which prosecutors claim he used his wealth and power to prey on and exploit mainly vulnerable Black men at his West Hollywood apartment for “party and play” experiences.
Buck paid men to use illicit substances, injecting huge quantities, and perform sexual acts on them during the interactions. Buck allegedly injected methamphetamine into the men with or without their consent, and sometimes while they were unconscious.
“Buck used his money and privilege to exploit the wealth and power imbalances between himself and his victims, who were unhoused, destitute, and/or struggling with addiction,” said Chelsea Norell, an assistant US attorney, in a court filing.
“He spent thousands of dollars on drugs and party and play sessions that destroyed lives and bred insidious addictions.”
Buck, a wealthy white man involved in gay and animal rights issues, has donated over $500,000 to Democratic politicians and causes since 2000.
