Two drug dealers face prison time after supplying fentanyl-laced pills that killed a Texas teenager, highlighting the deadly consequences of the opioid crisis.
We need to put an end to this crisis. And it starts at the border.
At a Glance
- Two fentanyl dealers sentenced to a combined 15 years in federal prison for the death of a 15-year-old girl in Carrolton, Texas
- Dealers supplied fake Percocet pills containing fentanyl
- Case began with the discovery of an unresponsive teen girl in June 2023
- Sting operation led to the arrest of Lizbeth Prieto, 19, and Cristian Lopez, 24
- U.S. Attorney emphasizes commitment to holding fentanyl traffickers accountable
Tragic Overdose Leads to Convictions
In a stark reminder of the dangers of fentanyl, two drug dealers have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in the death of a 15-year-old girl in Carrolton, Texas. The case, which began with the tragic discovery of an unresponsive teen in June 2023, has resulted in substantial prison terms for those responsible for supplying the lethal drugs.
Lizbeth Prieto, 19, and Cristian Lopez, 24, were charged in June 2023 and indicted the following month for their involvement in distributing fentanyl-laced pills. The severity of their actions was reflected in the sentences handed down by the court. Prieto, who pleaded guilty in November 2023, received 84 months in federal prison. Lopez, who entered his guilty plea in July 2024, was sentenced to 96 months.
The Deadly Transaction
The investigation revealed a chilling sequence of events leading to the teenager’s death. Police found ten blue pills marked “M30” in the victim’s bedroom, which tested positive for fentanyl. Evidence showed that Prieto had offered to sell these pills to the victim for $100 the day before her tragic demise.
A sting operation subsequently led to the arrest of both Prieto and Lopez. During the investigation, Prieto admitted to selling the pills, while Lopez confessed to being the supplier. This operation not only brought the immediate perpetrators to justice but also shed light on the supply chain of these deadly substances.
A Houston family was granted justice Tuesday as the drug dealer involved in their loved one’s fatal fentanyl overdose three years ago was sentenced to prison, marking an end to a prolonged legal ordeal influenced by recent changes to Texas drug laws. https://t.co/tbLurvL4cf pic.twitter.com/gmNb96PIXg
— FOX26Houston (@FOX26Houston) December 3, 2024
Law Enforcement’s Response
U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, Leigha Simonton, announced the sentencing, underscoring the justice system’s commitment to combating the fentanyl crisis. Special Agent Eduardo A. Chavez emphasized the grave danger of selling fentanyl to youth and reiterated law enforcement’s dedication to holding traffickers accountable.
The convictions send a clear message to those involved in the distribution of fentanyl and other dangerous opioids. The substantial prison terms reflect the seriousness with which the legal system views these crimes, especially when they result in the loss of young lives.
This has to end – and thankfully, the president-elect has said he’s going to solve this problem.
