Jestice James is being held in lieu of $4 million bail. If convicted as charged, she faces life in prison. 

July 18, 2024 – CANOGA PARK, CA – Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced on Tuesday that a woman has been charged with murder in the deaths of her three-year-old twin sons who were allegedly exposed to drugs laced with fentanyl, the highly potent synthetic opioid.

“These innocent boys reportedly came into contact with fentanyl, an opioid that has wreaked havoc across our communities,” District Attorney Gascón said. “This tragedy is part of a disturbing trend where babies and toddlers are increasingly becoming victims of the opioid crisis. The deadly capabilities of fentanyl cannot be overstated, and it is our collective responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves. My office is committed to holding accountable anyone who exposes vulnerable children to such dangerous substances.”

Jestice James (22) is charged in case 24VWCF01433 with two counts of murder and two counts of child abuse/endangerment under circumstances or conditions likely to cause great bodily harm or death. 

James is being held in lieu of $4 million bail. Arraignment was on Wednesday, Dept. 10 of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Van Nuys Branch.

On July 11, shortly after 11:00 a.m., emergency crews responded to a home in the San Fernando Valley, where paramedics attempted life-saving measures on the twin boys, Josiah and Jestine. Both were taken to the hospital. Josiah died on July 11 and Jestine was pronounced deceased on July 13. 

If convicted as charged, the defendant faces life in prison.

The case is being investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department.

Source: Los Angeles County District Attorney