A 22-year-old resident of Laredo, identified as Jose Antonio Carlos III, also known as Jose Carlos, has pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl resulting in the death of a 15-year-old, as announced by U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

The incident dates back to May 17, 2023, when authorities responded to an overdose call at a residence in Laredo. Upon arrival, they discovered the victim in his bed, unresponsive, with a rolled-up dollar bill containing white powder. The subsequent toxicology report and autopsy confirmed fentanyl toxicity as the cause of death.

Investigation revealed text messages indicating the victim's intent to purchase "pase" (code for cocaine) from Carlos. The accused provided the price and an address off Longoria Loop. On the evening of May 16, 2023, an individual drove the victim to the specified location, where Carlos handed him a small baggie with white powder. The victim was dropped off at his home that night.

The following morning, the victim's aunt discovered his lifeless body when she couldn't reach him. Law enforcement pronounced the victim dead on-scene.

In his guilty plea, Carlos admitted to selling "pase" to the victim and acknowledged texting him the next day inquiring about the experience.

U.S. Attorney Hamdani expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, "Carlos’ decision to sell illicit drugs caused the death of a 15-year-old child." He emphasized the tragic nature of the case, underscoring the threat of fentanyl to individuals of all ages.

U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will determine Carlos' sentencing at a later date. The defendant faces a minimum of 20 years and up to life in federal prison, along with a potential fine of up to $1 million. Carlos will remain in custody until the sentencing hearing.

The comprehensive investigation involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol, Laredo Police Department, and Webb County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Bajew and Leslie Cortez are prosecuting the case.