Mother Charged with Murder in Deaths of Twin Sons from Fentanyl Exposure
Canoga Park, CA – Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced that a woman has been charged with murder following the deaths of her three-year-old twin sons who were allegedly exposed to drugs laced with fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid.
“These innocent boys reportedly came into contact with fentanyl, an opioid that has wreaked havoc across our communities,” Gascón stated. “This tragedy highlights a disturbing trend of babies and toddlers falling victim to the opioid crisis. The deadly capabilities of fentanyl cannot be overstated, and it is our collective responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves. My office is committed to holding accountable anyone who exposes vulnerable children to such dangerous substances.”
Jestice James, born on March 27, 2002, is charged with two counts of murder and two counts of child abuse/endangerment under conditions likely to cause great bodily harm or death. She is being held on $4 million bail and faces arraignment today in Department 10 of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Van Nuys Branch.
Emergency crews responded to a home in the San Fernando Valley on July 11 shortly after 11 a.m. Paramedics attempted life-saving measures on the twin boys, Josiah and Jestine, who were then taken to the hospital. Josiah died on July 11, and Jestine was pronounced deceased on July 13.
If convicted, James faces life in prison.
