NEW YORK (PIX11) — A man has been charged with multiple crimes after an infant suffered fentanyl poisoning, according to Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney.
According to officials, 21-year-old Henry Martinez called 911 to report that the 8-month-old child was not breathing at around 11:05 a.m. on Wednesday.
When paramedics arrived, the infant’s skin had turned a “bluish hue” from the lack of oxygen, officials said. The child was rushed to a local hospital and administered Narcan by hospital staff for a suspected opioid overdose. The infant survived, according to officials.
An investigation into the incident followed, and found that Martinez had allegedly snorted fentanyl powder with a plastic straw while the infant was next to him on a bed. Officials said Martinez then laid down next to the child, still holding the straw with drug residue on it.
Officials said the exposure to fentanyl is what caused the infant to stop breathing.
While searching Martinez’s bedroom, investigators allegedly found fentanyl, digital scales, packaging materials and a phone he reportedly used to buy the substance.
Martinez, of Brentwood, was charged with assault, criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal use of drug paraphernalia and endangering the welfare of a child.
“The disregard for keeping this baby out of harm’s way is truly egregious,” said Suffolk County Commissioner Kevin Catalina.
Martinez faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of second-degree assault, according to officials. He is due back in court on Nov. 24.