PHILADELPHIA - An indictment was unsealed today in federal court charging Eric C. Opitz, 45, of Phillipsburg, New Jersey with health care fraud, mail fraud, and the illegal distribution human growth hormones (“HGH") and anabolic steroids, announced United States Attorney Zane David Memeger.
The indictment alleges that the defendant used Medicare Part D benefits to obtain HGH and anabolic steroids, which he then sold by advertising on the internet. HGH and anabolic steroids are frequently used by athletes and body builders for unapproved purposes such as enhancing performance and building muscle mass. These drugs can present serious health risks when not properly administered under the supervision of a licensed physician. It is alleged that the defendant typically sold human growth hormone, for approximately $450 per 5 mg kit, to any interested buyer. The defendant was not a licensed physician, nor did he have any medical training.
If convicted, the defendant faces a substantial term of imprisonment and is subject to criminal forfeiture proceedings.
The case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations, the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney M. Beth Leahy.
An Indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
UNITED STATES ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, EASTERN DISTRICTof PENNSYLVANIA
Suite 1250, 615 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
PATTY HARTMAN, Media Contact, 215-861-8525
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
