Federal Charges Filed in Fentanyl Overdose Case
May 9, 2023 4:38 PM
On May 24, 2022, Santa Monica Police Officers and the Santa Monica Fire Department responded to a residence for a 9-1-1 call of three juveniles, all students in Santa Monica, who were unconscious and having difficulty breathing. They were treated by paramedics and rushed to the hospital where all three were treated for an overdose of fentanyl. All three girls were hospitalized with critical injuries consistent with an overdose.
Following a lengthy investigation in coordination with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), a suspect was identified and, on April 27, 2023, was arrested and charged with providing fentanyl and causing great bodily injury.
In custody: Adrian Benevides-Schorgi, 22 years old, of Los Angeles.
His trial is set for June 20th in Federal Court, Central District of California.
On May 9th, Santa Monica Police Chief Batista attended a press conference with officials from six separate counties whose agencies coordinated fentanyl-related investigations with the DEA. The purpose of the press conference was to highlight the grave dangers of fentanyl sales and use in our communities.
Please see the press release from the DEA for additional details about the investigations, charges, and handling United States Attorney. https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdca/pr/12-new-federal-cases-filed-law-enforcement-continues-vigorous-response-deadly-fentanyl
Media Contact
Erika Aklufi
Lieutenant
Erika.Aklufi@santamonica.gov