Two Massachusetts men have pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to the manufacturing and distribution of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and other controlled substances. Elmidio Crisostomo, 30, of Lynnfield, and David Depena, 32, of Lynn, admitted to one count each of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Sentencing is scheduled for December 10, 2025.
According to court documents, Crisostomo and Depena operated out of an apartment in Lynn where they produced counterfeit pills using a hand-crank-style press. The operation resulted in the distribution of thousands of these pills in several towns, including Malden and Revere. Law enforcement recovered multiple kilograms of pills and powder containing fentanyl during a search of the apartment in June 2023.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $1 million. Sentences will be determined by a federal district court judge according to U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
“United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jarod A. Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lynn Police Department and the Revere Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.”
