The mother of California twin toddlers is behind bars after her 3-year-old sons allegedly died from exposure to fentanyl-laced drugs.
ABC 7 reports that Jestice James faces two counts of murder and two counts of child abuse under circumstances likely to cause great bodily injury or death, with additional allegations of child endangerment, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
Prosecutors stated that on July 11, paramedics arrived at the apartment in the 20000 block of Sherman Way in Canoga Park, where James was with her boyfriend and family. First responders found the children, Josiah and Jestine, unresponsive. They were subsequently rushed to the hospital.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the children had ingested, or been exposed to, an unknown substance,” police said in a news release.
The Los Angeles Times reports that Josiah was pronounced dead at the hospital Thursday, and his brother died Saturday, according to Officer Kevin Terzes, with the Los Angeles Police Department.
James’ bail is set at $4 million. Her arraignment is scheduled for July 31.
The investigation continues.
Anyone with information about the cases should contact Detective Ortiz at 818-374-5415. During non-business hours or weekends, call 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). To remain anonymous, call L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or visit www.lacrimestoppers.org.
[Feature Photo: Family Handout/Josiah and Jestine]
