New York Daycare Owner Grei Mendez Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Charges Linked to Toddler's Death

A former NYC daycare owner pleaded guilty to drug charges after a toddler's fatal fentanyl overdose, facing 20 years to life prison sentence.

In a tragic incident that occurred more than a year ago, a woman connected to a New York City daycare center was implicated in the death of a toddler due to fentanyl ingestion. Grei Mendez, the owner of the Divino Niño daycare, entered a guilty plea to federal drug charges in Manhattan, admitting her role in the conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death. The charges stemmed from the heartbreaking death of 22-month-old Nicholas Dominici in September 2023. This plea comes after Mendez's husband, Felix Herrera-Garcia, was sentenced to 45 years in prison for similar drug charges and causing bodily harm.

Heart-wrenching Admission and Consequences

During the court proceedings, Mendez, aged 37, tearfully acknowledged her involvement in the drug operation. She revealed that she conspired with her husband and another individual to possess and distribute drugs, subsequently aiding them in packaging and storing the narcotics in the Bronx apartment where the daycare was located. Mendez expressed profound remorse, stating, "This will haunt me for as long as I live," emphasizing the emotional toll of her actions, especially as a mother of four.

Moreover, Mendez recognized her husband's role in encouraging her to establish the daycare, initially believing it was for their benefit. However, she later realized it served as a facade for his illicit drug business. The devastating revelation of the hidden drug operation in the daycare profoundly impacted Mendez, leading to her guilty plea.

Legal Consequences and Possible Sentencing

Mendez is scheduled to be sentenced on March 3 and faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison, with the possibility of up to life imprisonment. Despite the severity of the situation, three other children exposed to the fentanyl at the daycare survived due to timely medical intervention with the overdose-reversing drug Narcan.

Furthermore, law enforcement officials uncovered a substantial amount of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia concealed beneath a trap door in the children’s play area during a search of the Bronx apartment. Photographic evidence released by the police revealed bags of powder strategically hidden beneath plywood and tile flooring. Disturbingly, investigators also discovered a kilogram of fentanyl atop playmats used by children, along with multiple devices designed for mixing the powder with other narcotics and pressing it into bricks.

Cover-Up Attempt Uncovered

Prosecutors emphasized Mendez's efforts to conceal the drug operation after realizing the children were unresponsive. Instead of immediately alerting authorities, she contacted her husband, who was later captured on surveillance footage entering the building and leaving surreptitiously with multiple shopping bags. This revelation further underscored the extent of Mendez's involvement in attempting to evade the consequences of the tragic incident.

Public Outcry and Legal Implications

The case has drawn significant public attention and condemnation, with U.S. Attorney Damian Williams labeling Mendez's conduct as “reprehensible.” Williams articulated the profound impact of the fentanyl epidemic, emphasizing the collateral damage it inflicts on innocent individuals while drug traffickers prioritize profit over safety.

Legal Defense and Pending State Charges

Mendez's legal representation has previously claimed her ignorance of the drug operation, attempting to shift the blame to her husband. However, Mendez has also faced state court charges of murder, manslaughter, and assault, to which she has pleaded not guilty. The unfolding legal battles reflect the complexity of the case and the pursuit of justice for the affected families.

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