Felix Herrera Garcia has pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection with a Bronx drug mill masquerading as a daycare. The Divino Niño Daycare was being used as a front to run a fentanyl drug operation, an activity that had devastating consequences for multiple children (nypost; abc).

Fentanyl Exposure and Tragic Outcome

On a tragic day at the daycare, four children were exposed to fentanyl. This led to the death of 1-year-old Nicholas Feliz Dominici and the hospitalization of three other children aged from 8 months to 2 years. These children were treated with Narcan, a medication designed to counteract opioid overdoses (nypost; abc). Nicholas Feliz Dominici's death was ruled acute fentanyl intoxication and determined a homicide by the city medical examiner's office (nypost).

Flight and Arrest

During the emergency, Herrera Garcia attempted to flee the scene, carrying two heavy shopping bags as the children were overdosing. He was later captured in Mexico and brought back to face charges in the United States, which include conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death and serious bodily injury. This could result in a sentence of 20 years to life in prison (nypost; abc).

Drug Mill's Operations

The daycare was not just a front but a perilous environment for children. Fentanyl was stored under trap doors and even on children's play mats, making the discovery particularly harrowing. Authorities seized over 10 kilos of narcotics, including fentanyl and heroin, from the premises (nypost; abc).

Additional Individuals Charged

In addition to Herrera Garcia, other individuals involved in the daycare operation, such as the daycare owner Grei Mendez and Carlisto Acevedo Brito, face charges. Prosecutors have called Herrera Garcia the 'main player' in this drug mill (nypost; abc). Grei Mendez had pulled her own 2-year-old son from the daycare due to suspected fentanyl exposure but did not report the danger to the police (abc).

Conclusion

This case underscores the peril posed by illicit drug operations, particularly when they infiltrate environments meant to be safe for children. The community continues to mourn the loss of Nicholas Feliz Dominici and seeks justice for all involved in this painful chapter.

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