In a somber turn of events, a new synthetic opioid known as protonitazene has been linked to a fatal overdose, marking a disturbing milestone in the nation's battle against drug-related deaths. According to CBS News, 21-year-old LA County resident Benjamin Anthony Collins has been indicted on a count of distribution of the drug resulting in death, a charge that could result in a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years or up to life imprisonment if convicted.
During an early morning transaction on April 19, Collins is alleged to have sold the drugs that turned fatal for a 22-year-old man. Found dead in his car by his mother, just outside her home, the victim took the pills that are believed to be "several times more powerful than fentanyl," as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office, Central District of California. This is said to be the first criminal case involving a death linked to protonitazene in the U.S., a drug that is reportedly three times more potent than fentanyl, which is already 50 times stronger than heroin.
The ongoing investigation is a joint effort between the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Collins, who pled not guilty at his arraignment, has been ordered jailed without bond, with a trial date set for January 14, 2025, as per the U.S. Attorney's Office, Central District of California. In the painful detail revealed, it is said that after the alleged purchase from Collins, the victim ingested some of the opioid-laced pills soon thereafter and died quickly after the drugs were taken.
Assistant United States Attorney Lisa J. Lindhorst of the General Crimes Section is leading the prosecution in the Collins case. Further information can be sought through Public Information Officer Ciaran McEvoy at the Department of Justice.
