Chanhda Onesyvieng, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Massachusetts 2023

Counterfeit Pill Trafficking Scheme Uncovered: Leominster Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Offense

A Leominster man has been brought to justice after pleading guilty to possessing large quantities of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine intended for distribution. Chanhda Onesyvieng, 48, was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

The scheme was uncovered in early April 2023, when federal law enforcement received information that Onesyvieng was distributing significant quantities of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine in Rhode Island. On April 28, 2023, during a traffic stop of Onesyvieng in Worcester, approximately two kilograms of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine and approximately 135 grams of cocaine were seized.

A subsequent search of the defendants’ residence in Leominster revealed approximately one kilogram of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine, approximately one kilogram of cocaine, and approximately $60,000 in cash. The discovery of these illicit substances and cash is a significant blow to the trafficking operation.

Oneyvieng was charged on May 1, 2023. He pleaded guilty to the charges yesterday in federal court in Worcester. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for October 4, 2023.

The charge of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

This case is a reminder of the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat the trafficking of illicit substances. The discovery of these counterfeit pills and the subsequent charges against Onesyvieng demonstrate the importance of collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies in disrupting and dismantling these operations.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy, Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division, and John. E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today.

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