In a heart-wrenching incident that has sent shockwaves through the Bronx community, the owner of Divino Niño Daycare, Grei Mendez, and her husband’s cousin, Carlisto Acevedo Brito, are now facing a slew of charges, including murder, following the tragic death of a 1-year-old boy under their care. One-year-old Nicholas Dominici lost his life, while three other children were hospitalized due to suspected opioid exposure. First responders arrived to find the infants in cardiac arrest, administering Narcan in a desperate bid to save them. Grei Mendez, who remained silent as she was led away in handcuffs from a police station, has denied any involvement in the incident, while her attorney, Andres Aranda, expressed his belief in her innocence.
In a shocking courtroom revelation, officials disclosed the discovery of one kilogram of fentanyl in a closet within the daycare premises, along with two-kilo presses used for processing drugs. A third-kilo press was found in Carlisto Acevedo Brito’s bedroom. Furthermore, at least one surviving child tested positive for fentanyl, adding to the horror of the situation. The grieving parents of Nicholas Dominici, who had entrusted their child to the daycare recommended by a community center, expressed profound regret over their decision, unaware of the alleged illicit activities taking place at the facility.
The daycare had recently passed a city inspection, raising questions about the adequacy of oversight. As the community grapples with this unimaginable loss, neighbors and concerned citizens are calling for a thorough investigation of all daycare facilities in the city. Both suspects, Mendez and Acevedo Brito, are currently facing more than ten charges, including murder, criminal possession of narcotics, and endangering the welfare of a child. Grei Mendez’s next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday morning, while Acevedo Brito is expected to be arraigned soon. The medical examiner has yet to determine the official cause of Nicholas Dominici’s tragic death, leaving the community in mourning and demanding answers.
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