Fresno County's First Fentanyl Murder Trial Ends in Guilty Verdict

By Anthony W. Haddad

Published 4 months ago on

March 26, 2025

Cassidy Marie Gonzalez, 24, was found guilty of second-degree murder in Fresno County's first fentanyl-related homicide trial on Wednesday, March 26, 2025,, following the overdose death of Jade Dreith. (Fresno County Sheriff's Office)

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Cassidy Marie Gonzalez, 24, of Fresno, was found guilty of second-degree murder on Wednesday for the fentanyl overdose death of Jade Dreith, 41.

This verdict marks the first conviction by a jury in a fentanyl-related homicide case in Fresno County, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office announced.

Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp praised the decision, stating, “Today, our office has delivered justice for Jade’s family by securing the first-ever jury conviction in a fentanyl murder trial in Fresno County.”

She added that the verdict highlights the commitment to protecting communities and holding accountable those who distribute illicit fentanyl, which has contributed to a rising number of overdose deaths.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid more than 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, is known for its high potency and unpredictable doses, which increase the risk of fatal overdoses, the DA’s office said.

Gonzalez remains in custody at the Fresno County Jail.

Her sentencing is scheduled for April 24 at 9 a.m. Second-degree murder carries a potential sentence of 15 years to life.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Deputy District Attorney Kendall T. Reynolds, with investigation by Commander Michael Johns of the Major Crimes Unit.

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Anthony W. Haddad,

Multimedia Journalist

Anthony W. Haddad, who graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with his undergraduate degree and attended Fresno State for a MBA, is the Swiss Army knife of GV Wire. He writes stories, manages social media, and represents the organization on the ground.