ICYMI: New York City Day Care HORROR—Toddler DIES After Ingesting Fentanyl!
A toddler died after ingesting fentanyl at a Bronx day care that doubled as a drug operation—now, the owner has been sentenced to prison. 🌐 #News #NewYorkNY #NewYork #Crime
NEW YORK, NY —Grei Mendez, the 37-year-old owner of Divino Niño day care in New York City, has been sentenced to 45 years in prison. Mendez pleaded guilty to federal drug charges, including conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death. The sentencing was overseen by Judge Jed S. Rakoff in a New York courtroom.
The case stems from the tragic death of 22-month-old Nicholas Feliz-Dominici, who ingested fentanyl at the Bronx-based day care on September 15, 2023. Three other children were exposed to the drug but survived after receiving Narcan.
Authorities later discovered a brick of fentanyl stored on top of playmats and additional packages of the drug hidden beneath a trap door in a play area.
Prosecutors Push for Harsh Sentence
During the hearing, Mendez expressed sorrow, telling the families through an interpreter that she never intended for the tragedy to happen. She insisted the incident was accidental and expressed hope that the families could one day forgive her.
Prosecutors argued that Mendez ignored clear warning signs when children at the facility became seriously ill and failed to take action. They also accused her of lying to law enforcement and destroying evidence in an attempt to shield herself and others involved.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky condemned her actions, saying she knowingly put infants in danger by allowing them to sleep, play, and eat in a room where a large quantity of fentanyl was hidden beneath them.
Judge and Victim’s Family Speak Out
Nicholas Feliz-Dominici’s parents delivered emotional statements at the sentencing. His mother made it clear she could not forgive Mendez, while his father described their pain as unbearable, saying life had lost its meaning for them.
Judge Rakoff acknowledged the deep emotions surrounding the case and reflected on his own past loss, explaining that the justice system does not ignore emotions but instead considers them within a broader legal framework.
He stated that Mendez had prioritized the well-being of her husband and children over the safety of the young children in her care.
Mendez’s husband, Felix HerreraGarcia, was previously sentenced to 45 years in prison for his role in the drug operation and the toddler’s death. Both faced a mandatory minimum of 20 years and a maximum of life behind bars.
Authorities say the day care doubled as a drug operation where fentanyl was stored and packaged. The case has drawn national attention, reinforcing the deadly risks posed by illicit fentanyl.
A Moment for Reflection
The tragic loss of Nicholas Feliz-Dominici is a heartbreaking reality for his family, who will forever carry the weight of his absence. In times of sorrow, communities come together, offering strength to those who grieve and standing firm against the dangers that threaten their most vulnerable. While nothing can undo the past, each act of vigilance and compassion helps build a future where children are safer and families are protected from such devastation. — Jack and Kitty Norton, Founders and Editors
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | New York
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