Fajardo Sentenced to 8 Years

A Lawrence man has been sentenced to 8 years in prison for distributing counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl, made using multiple pill press machines. Miguel Angel Fajardo, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl in October 2022.

In March 2022, law enforcement searched Fajardo’s apartment and seized approximately 7.3 kilograms worth of fentanyl pills, an industrial pill press and “M” and “30” pill stamps consistent with markings on pharmaceutical-grade Oxycodone pills. The search also uncovered approximately 1.4 kilograms of fentanyl powder, two individual finger presses, 50 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition concealed in a microwave, four kilograms of cutting agent and two air purifying respirators.

The investigation revealed that Fajardo used multiple pill press machines to produce the counterfeit pills. Two one-kilogram pill press machines and another large pill press were found in his apartment. The pill stamps found at the scene are commonly used to make counterfeit pills appear to be legitimate pharmaceutical-grade pills.

Fajardo’s sentence was handed down by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton, who also ordered two years of supervised release. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Craig E. Estes and Evan D. Panich of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit.

The announcement of Fajardo’s sentence was made by U.S. Attorney Rachael S. Rollins; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Field Division; and Lawrence Acting Police Chief Michael McCarthy. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the distribution of fentanyl and other illicit substances in Massachusetts.

The use of pill press machines to produce counterfeit pills is a growing concern for law enforcement. The machines allow individuals to mass-produce pills that can be made to look like legitimate pharmaceuticals, but often contain deadly substances like fentanyl. The case against Fajardo demonstrates the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies to disrupt and dismantle these operations.

As the opioid epidemic continues to affect communities across the country, cases like Fajardo’s serve as a reminder of the dangers of fentanyl and the importance of holding those responsible for its distribution accountable. The sentence handed down in this case reflects the seriousness with which law enforcement and the courts are treating these crimes.

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