A Fresno woman was sentenced Friday to 15 years to life in state prison for second-degree murder in the fentanyl overdose death of a 41-year-old woman, in what prosecutors described as the county’s first fentanyl-related homicide case to result in a jury conviction and sentencing.

Cassidy Marie Gonzalez, 25, was sentenced in Fresno County Superior Court by Judge Alvin Harrell, who also presided over the trial, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office said in a statement. Gonzalez also received a consecutive determinate sentence of four years and four months for separate felony narcotics sales convictions.

A jury convicted Gonzalez of all counts on March 26, 2025, in the death of Jade Dreith, the statement says. Prosecutors said evidence at trial showed Gonzalez knowingly sold fentanyl that directly caused Dreith’s fatal overdose and that Gonzalez was aware of the drug’s extreme dangers.

Investigators also presented evidence that Gonzalez continued selling counterfeit prescription M-30 pills containing fentanyl after Dreith’s death, demonstrating a conscious disregard for public safety, prosecutors said. Jurors found her conduct met the legal standard for second-degree murder under California law.

Because Gonzalez was under 25 at the time of the offense, she is eligible for a youthful offender parole hearing, though eligibility does not guarantee release.

“This sentencing reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s actions and the devastating and deadly consequences of distributing fentanyl,” said Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp. “Fentanyl continues to claim lives in our community, and when someone knowingly sells this poison and a life is lost, we will pursue maximum accountability under the law.”

—

Connect with Anthony W. Haddad on social media. Got a tip? Send an email.