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Mom charged with murder for twins' fentanyl deaths
Jestice James of Canoga Park has been charged with murder for the death of her twin three-year-olds Josiah and Jestine. The twins died after they were allegedly exposed to drugs laced with fentanyl
CANOGA PARK, Calif. - A Canoga Park mother has been charged with murder in the deaths of her 3-year-old twin sons who were allegedly exposed to drugs laced with fentanyl, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced.
Jestice James is charged with two counts of murder and two counts of child abuse/endangerment under circumstances or conditions likely to cause great bodily harm or death.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Canoga Park mother arrested after toddler's alleged overdose
"These innocent boys reportedly came into contact with fentanyl, an opioid that has wreaked havoc across our communities," District Attorney Gascón said. "This tragedy is part of a disturbing trend where babies and toddlers are increasingly becoming victims of 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."
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Toddler dies days after twin overdosed
A 3-year-old boy has died days after his twin also allegedly overdosed.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 3-year-old boy dies days after twin over alleged overdose in Canoga Park; mother arrested
Paramedics found both boys unresponsive at a home on July 11. Both were taken to the hospital. Josiah died on July 11, and Jestine died on July 13, according to authorities.
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner is working to determine what caused the boys' deaths.
Police said the other residents of the home are not being investigated any further.
Bail for James has been set at $4 million. If convicted as charged, James faces life in prison.