Grei Mendez, 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 including conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death. Mendez faces a minimum of 20 years in prison. The incident occurred at the Divino Niño daycare center in the Bronx, where prosecutors accused Mendez, her husband Felix Herrera Garcia, and co-conspirator Renny “El Gallo” Parra Paredes of running a fentanyl operation. Mendez tried to cover up the drug operation as the children suffered. Herrera Garcia was sentenced to 45 years in prison earlier this month, and Parra Paredes pleaded guilty as well. Carlisto Acevedo Brito was also charged in connection to the case. The incident sparked public outcry and increased scrutiny of New York City day care centers. Local health officials said employees at the day care had passed background checks, but reports revealed a backlog of background checks for child care providers. After the incident, city officials vowed to protect children, especially after other day care facility incidents were uncovered. Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe environment for children in day care facilities. The opioid epidemic’s deadly toll was highlighted by the tragic events at the Bronx day care center, underscoring the risks and dangers associated with illegal drug operations.
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