A Las Vegas grandmother will serve at least three years in prison after admitting responsibility in the fentanyl death of her 2-year-old grandson, Da'Corrius Perine. The boy died in late October 2024, and investigators say an autopsy found his cause of death was fentanyl toxicity.
Plea and sentence
Under a plea agreement, Lashana Graham pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and child abuse. Judge Michelle Leavitt handed down a 3–8 year prison sentence, according to 8 News Now. With credit for time already served, Graham is expected to be eligible for parole in 2028.
What investigators found
Police say a search of Graham’s bedroom turned up residue from multiple drugs, and a blood test showed the presence of fentanyl and methamphetamine, as reported by the Las Vegas Review‑Journal. Investigators told the Review‑Journal that Graham admitted buying powdered fentanyl several times a week. They also said Da'Corrius had been left in her care while his mother was out of town.
Local context: fentanyl's reach
Public health agencies in Southern Nevada report that fentanyl is driving a steep rise in overdose deaths across the Las Vegas Valley. The Southern Nevada Health District's overdose dashboard and reports show hundreds of overdose deaths in the county in recent years and a significant increase in fatalities involving fentanyl. In response, officials have expanded naloxone distribution and outreach, and the district’s data highlights the ongoing scope of the crisis.
Family reaction
At the sentencing hearing, the boy’s mother, Deliah Perine, addressed the court and spoke about her loss. “I just miss my baby so much,” she said, according to 8 News Now. Graham also apologized in court, telling her daughter, “I’m so sorry, you know I love Da'Corrius. I never meant for nothing like this to happen, and I love you too.”
Legal notes
Graham was initially arrested on a murder charge after Da'Corrius’ death in October 2024, but the case resulted in a plea to the lesser counts of involuntary manslaughter and child abuse. With the 3–8 year sentence and credit for time served, prosecutors say she will be eligible for parole in 2028 under Nevada sentencing rules.
What officials and neighbors hope to see next
Advocates and public health officials say the case highlights how dangerous fentanyl can be inside homes and around children, and they argue it underscores the need for more prevention and treatment resources. The Southern Nevada Health District and community partners continue to promote wider access to naloxone, drug‑testing tools and treatment referrals for people who use drugs, aiming to prevent more deaths like Da'Corrius’.
