New York City daycare owner Grei Mendez, has been sentenced to 45 years in prison after pleading guilty to federal drug charges in connection with the fentanyl-related death of a toddler.

Grei Mendez, 37, who operated the Divino Niño daycare in the Bronx, was visibly distraught as Judge Jed S. Rakoff delivered the sentence. Her expression prompted emotional reactions from both her family and the grieving mother of 22-month-old Nicholas Feliz-Dominici.

Mendez’s husband, Felix Herrera-Garcia, had previously received an identical sentence after admitting guilt to drug charges and bodily harm related to the child’s death. Both faced a mandatory minimum of 20 years and a potential life sentence.

Grei Mendez expressed remorse before sentencing, calling the incident an accident and asking for forgiveness. However, prosecutors argued she willfully ignored signs of the children’s declining health and failed to seek medical help.

Feliz-Dominici suffered fentanyl poisoning on September 15, 2023. He was rushed to a hospital but did not survive. Three other children exposed to the drug were saved with Narcan.

Investigators found fentanyl hidden in the daycare, including a brick of the lethal drug placed on playmats, packaging equipment, and additional stashes beneath a trapdoor in the play area. Prosecutors accused Mendez of prioritizing her family’s interests over the safety of the children entrusted to her care.

At sentencing, the toddler’s parents spoke of their deep pain, with his father stating, “We’re living, but we’re not alive.” Judge Rakoff, reflecting on personal loss, acknowledged the emotional weight of the case. He also emphasized the role of the law in ensuring justice.

Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky condemned Grei Mendez’s actions, highlighting the grave danger she had exposed young children to in a supposed place of safety.

#Clique, what are your thoughts?