Suffolk County officials announced the arrest of Henry Martinez, 21, this week. The Brentwood resident faces multiple charges following an incident in which an eight-month-old infant in his care suffered fentanyl poisoning and required emergency lifesaving treatment.
The charges, which include Assault in the Second Degree, stem from allegations that Martinez consumed fentanyl in close proximity to the child, causing her to experience respiratory distress consistent with opioid exposure, per medical reports.
“The alleged use of fentanyl in the presence of an eight-month-old infant, resulting in the child suffering respiratory distress and requiring emergency Narcan treatment, demonstrates a shocking disregard for the safety and welfare of a vulnerable child,” said Suffolk DA Ray Tierney. “My office will continue to hold accountable those whose dangerous actions endanger our community’s most defenseless members.”
Suffolk County Commissioner Kevin Catalina echoed these condemning sentiments. “The dangers of fentanyl are evident in what we see every day, but the disregard for keeping this baby out of harm’s way is truly egregious. Thankfully, she received the necessary medical care to prevent further tragedy.”
Investigators say the incident occurred on November 12th, at approximately 11:05 a.m. Martinez allegedly snorted fentanyl through a plastic straw while the child was next to him on a bed and then lay beside her while still holding the straw containing drug residue.
Paramedics responded to the 9-1-1 call the defendant made and revived the infant, who was then transported to Good Samaritan Hospital. Staff administered Narcan, and she survived.
A court-ordered search uncovered fentanyl on Martinez’s bedroom floor, digital scales, a cellphone, and packaging materials.
Martinez was arraigned on November 13th before Judge Eric Sachs, who denied the request for bail and ordered supervised release. He is due back in court on November 24th and faces up to seven years in prison if convicted.