Antwane Dupree Lee, 25, of Fresno, faces a second-degree murder charge in the alleged fentanyl poisoning death of a Fresno woman last month. (Fresno County SO)
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Antwane Dupree Lee, 25, of Fresno, faces a second-degree murder charge in the alleged fentanyl poisoning death of a Fresno woman last month.
The Fresno County District Attorney’s Office filed the murder accusation, as well as drug trafficking charges, against Lee on Tuesday. If convicted, he could receive a sentence of 15 years to life in state prison.
“In addition to educating the public on the dangers of fentanyl, the Fresno County DA’s office is committed to holding to account those who are poisoning our community,” DA Lisa Smittcamp said in a statement. “This case is an example of our collaborative efforts and we will be steadfast in seeking justice for the family of Ms. Green.”
Related Story: Fresno Sheriff’s Detectives Seize 200,000 Fentanyl Pills in I-5 Stop
Smittcamp Calls for Tougher Fentanyl Penalties
Smittcamp also referenced the nation’s fentanyl crisis and called for stronger penalties for those convicted of fentanyl-related crimes.
“Inaction is unacceptable and our legislators can no longer ignore the reality that fentanyl poisoning is now the leading cause of death for people ages 18-45, with 1 person dying every 8 ½ minutes. It’s past time to act,” she said.
Lee is accused of selling fentanyl-laced pills to Vernisha Green, 34, on April 16. She was found dead the next day.
Victim Stabbed Outside Fresno Jail in 2014
In 2014, Green was stabbed outside the Fresno County Jail by a romantic rival after Green visited her boyfriend there.
A week after Green died, police booked Lee into jail for violating his probation. He will be arraigned on the murder and drug charges Wednesday morning.