NJ man charged with fraud scheme and illegally selling steroids

PHILADELPHIA — A New Jersey man was charged Wednesday with health care fraud, mail fraud, and the illegal distribution human growth hormones (HGH) and anabolic steroids. The investigation was conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Food and Drug Administration's Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General.

Eric C. Opitz, 45, of Phillipsburg, Pennsylvania, was charged with using Medicare Part D benefits to obtain human growth hormone (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 Opitz typically sold HGH for approximately $450 per 5 mg kit to any interested buyer. Opitz was not a licensed physician, nor did he have any medical training.

Opitz faces a substantial term of imprisonment and is subject to criminal forfeiture proceedings.

The case is being prosecuted by Eastern District of Pennsylvania Assistant United States Attorney M. Beth Leahy.