The owner of a New York day care where a 1-year-old died from fentanyl poisoning and three other children were hospitalized pleaded guilty to federal charges, facing a minimum of 20 years in prison. Grei Mendez, along with her husband and a co-conspirator, ran a fentanyl operation inside the day care center. The incident occurred in 2023 when four children were hospitalized for suspected fentanyl poisoning, resulting in one death. Mendez, her husband, and the co-conspirator stored large quantities of fentanyl and heroin in secret compartments located under the floors of the day care, where children played, ate, and slept.
The suspects attempted to cover up the drug operation as children suffered from the effects of fentanyl exposure. Mendez deleted messages between her and her husband and waited to call 911. The incident sparked public outcry, leading to increased scrutiny of New York City day care centers and a backlog of background checks for child care providers. City officials vowed to protect children after other day care facility incidents.
This case highlighted the senseless collateral damage caused by the fentanyl epidemic and the risks posed to innocent bystanders when drug traffickers pursue profits. The incident raised concerns about the safety of children in day care centers and the importance of thorough background checks for child care providers to ensure the well-being of children in their care.
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