Bronx man pleads guilty to narcotics distribution leading to child's death

Felix Herrera Garcia, 35, of The Bronx, has pled guilty in Manhattan Federal Court to conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death and serious bodily injury.

Herrera Garcia also admitted to possessing narcotics with intent to distribute, resulting in the poisoning of four children under the age of three at a Bronx daycare on September 15, 2023. Tragically, one of the children, a boy just under two years old, did not survive.

This guilty plea follows a similar admission by Renny Antonio Parra Paredes, 38, also of The Bronx, who pled guilty two weeks ago on May 23. Parra Paredes acknowledged his role in the conspiracy to distribute narcotics, which led to the severe poisoning incident.

On the fateful day, the four children at the daycare were exposed to fentanyl, a powerful opioid. Three of the children were hospitalized with severe symptoms, while the youngest, a nearly two-year-old boy, succumbed to the poisoning.

Both Herrera Garcia and Parra Paredes face severe legal consequences for their actions. Herrera Garcia’s guilty plea to all three counts carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison, with the potential for a life sentence. Similarly, Parra Paredes’ conspiracy charge carries the same severe sentencing guidelines.

The case has drawn significant attention to the dangers of narcotics distribution and the catastrophic consequences it can have, especially on vulnerable populations like young children. The tragedy has also underscored the critical need for stringent oversight and regulation of environments where children are cared for.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, the court proceedings against Herrera Garcia and Parra Paredes continue to highlight the far-reaching impact of the opioid crisis.