A Cambridge man, identified as Schuyler Oppenheimer, has been arrested under allegations concerning the production of over 200 kilograms of counterfeit pills laden with methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as charges related to fraudulent pandemic loan applications. The arrest occurred on July 18, 2024, and the charges were disclosed by the Department of Justice on their official website.
The U.S. Attorney's Office claims that Oppenheimer, also known by the aliases "SK" and "Michael Sylvain," managed a complex illegal operation that posed a significant threat to public health. His arrest was the culmination of an initiative to aggressively combat the infiltration of deadly narcotics into community streets. Court documents reveal that Oppenheimer was technically proficient, operating a clandestine lab to synthetically produce fentanyl and compound controlled substances for widespread distribution.
Ongoing federal investigations have uncovered that, for approximately four years, Oppenheimer allegedly engaged in manufacturing counterfeit pills, misleadingly resembling prescription drugs like Adderall or Percocet. Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy characterized the manufacturing operation as "dangerous" and "appalling," pointing out the concern that such activities continue to saturate our streets with life-threatening drugs. According to the Department of Justice, seized documents indicate the importation of pill press parts from China, allegedly used in the production of counterfeit pharmaceuticals.
The federal law enforcement's joint efforts were highlighted by Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, who stated, "Fentanyl and methamphetamine being distributed in the form of fake pills is causing tremendous damage to our community." Alarmingly, Oppenheimer is accused of acquiring over $40,000 through two Paycheck Protection Program loan applications, with authorities alleging the submission of fraudulent information to back the applications, as reported by the Department of Justice.
During a search warrant execution at a Cambridge residence, investigators seized over five kilograms of suspected counterfeit Adderall pills and a loaded firearm. In light of prior felony convictions, federal law mandates that Oppenheimer should not have possessed any firearms. The array of charges against him includes possession with intent to distribute a sizeable quantity of methamphetamine and wire fraud, which collectively could result in a lengthy prison sentence and substantial fines.
The case is being prosecuted by the Organized Crime and Gang Unit of the U.S. Attorney's Office, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard taking the lead. The Cambridge Police Department has also been acknowledged for providing valuable assistance in the ongoing investigation. It is important to note that all information presented in the charging documents is purely accusatory, and Oppenheimer is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.