A Palmdale resident, Christopher Morales, 22, is facing a new charge related to the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. This development comes after a federal grand jury indictment added another count following the death of a second victim in August. Morales was initially charged in October for a similar incident involving another victim.
The superseding indictment now includes an additional count against Morales, who was previously charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death and two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. He is expected to be arraigned on these charges soon.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada commented on the case, stating, "The defendant allegedly chose financial gain over the life of another when he decided to traffic fentanyl." He emphasized that such actions are intolerable and highlighted ongoing efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis.
Anthony Chrysanthis from the DEA Los Angeles Field Division remarked on the gravity of the situation: "Within a five-month period, two victims died of fentanyl poisoning, allegedly after receiving fentanyl from the defendant." He noted that drug traffickers continue their activities despite fatalities but assured that law enforcement remains vigilant.
The indictment reveals that the second victim succumbed to fentanyl poisoning at his family's home shortly after acquiring the drug from Morales. The first case led to Morales's arrest on September 9 following an investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. A search at his residence uncovered 4.3 grams of fentanyl and incriminating text messages.
Morales has been detained since his arrest and faces significant legal consequences if convicted. Each count carries a mandatory 20-year prison sentence and could result in life imprisonment.
This case is under investigation by both the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Kelsey A. Stimson is leading the prosecution.