Four Charged in Fentanyl Overdose Death of Robert De Niro's Grandson, Leandro

4 days ago7 min read

Federal authorities have charged four individuals in connection with the fentanyl overdose death of Leandro De Niro Rodriguez, the 19-year-old grandson of actor Robert De Niro. The indictments allege the defendants operated a drug distribution network that sold counterfeit prescription pills on social media platforms, including Instagram.Prosecutors state the pills were designed to look like legitimate pharmaceuticals, such as oxycodone, but were laced with the potent synthetic opioid fentanyl. The investigation, which combined digital forensics with traditional police work, traced the specific pills that caused Leandro's death back to this alleged operation.This case highlights the ongoing and indiscriminate danger of the opioid crisis, impacting families from all walks of life. For the De Niro family, it represents a profound private tragedy, underscoring how the shadow of this epidemic extends even into the most prominent circles. The charges are also expected to intensify scrutiny on the role of social media in facilitating the illegal drug trade.

#overdose death

#drug ring

#counterfeit pills

#social media

#Robert De Niro

#New York

#criminal charges

#lead focus news

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