In a tragic incident in Canoga Park, California, 22-year-old Jestice James is facing charges of murder and child abuse after her three-year-old twin sons, Josiah and Jestine, died from suspected drug exposure. The heartbreaking event unfolded on July 11 when paramedics found the boys unresponsive at their home. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Josiah died that night, and Jestine passed away two days later.

Deputy District Attorney Jonathan Hatami revealed that this is the first case in Los Angeles County where a parent has been charged with deaths linked to a fentanyl overdose. Hatami stressed the vulnerability of children in such situations, pointing out that adults are responsible for using drugs like fentanyl, but it is the innocent children who suffer the consequences. He highlighted that there have been four other similar cases of children exposed to fentanyl in LA County within the past six months.

During a court appearance on July 16,Jestice appeared visibly distraught, struggling to hold back tears as her mother, LaTina Allen, mouthed “I love you” from across the courtroom. James is being held in county jail with a $4 million bail and is scheduled to return to court on July 31 once an attorney is assigned to her case.

Family members who attended the hearing described Jestice as a loving and devoted mother who would never intentionally harm her children. They recalled how the boys had recently celebrated their birthday and spent time at the beach with family during the July Fourth holiday. The family’s grief is compounded by the shocking nature of the charges against James.