[Cabrera:] The hedge fund manager, who gained notoriety by jacking up prices for HIV medications, reportedly has been using a cell phone in prison to run a pharmaceutical business. The Bureau of Prisons says it has launched an investigation into Martin Shkreli, famously known as the Pharma Bro after the "Wall Street Journal" reported the allegations earlier this week. Shkreli is currently serving a seven-year sentence for defrauding investors. Here's CNN's Polo Sandoval with the latest.
[Polo Sandoval, Cnn Correspondent:] The so-called Pharma Bro, Martin Shkreli, may still be at it. Reportedly running part of his old pharmaceutical company from his federal prison cell in New Jersey. On Thursday, the "Wall Street Journal" reported Shkreli was using a contraband cell phone to continue heading the drug company that earned once earned him the title of most-hated man in America. As the CEO of Phoenixus, in 2015, known as Turing Pharmaceuticals at the time, Shkreli surged the price of a life-saving drug used to treat AIDS patients by 5,000 percent. The price hike sparked public outrage and a series of inquiries targeting the now-disgraced
[Ceo. Martin Shkreli, Former Hedge Fund Manager:] This was a witch hunt of epic proportions. Maybe they found one or two broomsticks. But at the end of the day, we've been acquitted of the most important charges in this case, and I'm delighted to report that.
[Sandoval:] According to "The Journal's" reporting, Shkreli expects Phoenixus will grow more successful while he's in prison, maybe worth $4 billion by the time he's released. In 2017, Shkreli was convicted of defrauding investors, misusing their money. He's 16 months into a seven-year prison sentence. In a statement to CNN, the Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed it's aware of these possible violations, writing, "When there are allegations of misconduct, they are thoroughly investigated and appropriate action is taken if such allegations are proven true. This allegation is currently under investigation." Prison officials declined to discuss details of Shkreli's confinement. They point out that all inmates are not allowed to possess cell phones. Conviction for such an offense can mean an extra year in prison and a fine. That would mean an even stiffer price for Shkreli to pay. He's already been ordered to forfeit $7.4 million in assets. Benjamin Brafman, Shkreli's criminal attorney, declined to comment. Attorney Marc Kasowitz, who "The Journal" reported has been hired by Shkreli's company, has not responded to requests for comment. Polo Sandoval, CNN, New York.
[Cabrera:] Equal pay for equal play. Members of the U.S. women's soccer team are now suing. You're live in the CNN NEWSROOM.