Bronx Daycare Owner Sentenced to 45 Years for Fentanyl-Related Death

NEW YORK, NY — Grei Mendez, the former owner of a Bronx daycare, was sentenced Monday to 45 years in prison following the death of 1-year-old Nicholas Feliz Dominici due to fentanyl exposure. Mendez, 37, pled guilty last year to conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death and serious bodily injury, along with two counts of drug possession.

The sentencing comes after a tragic incident at the Divino Niño daycare, where investigators found over 11 kilograms of fentanyl packaged and hidden beneath play mats. Prosecutors revealed that Mendez and her co-conspirators used the daycare as a drug distribution center between June 2022 and September 2023, allegedly placing children in harm’s way while conducting their illegal operations.

On September 15, 2023, shortly after the children were dropped off, Nicholas Dominici was found unresponsive. Emergency responders were called, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. Mendez, who initially claimed everything was fine, made multiple calls to family members before calling 911, raising suspicions about her actions during the crisis.

Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky addressed Mendez’s accountability in the case, stating, “No punishment can make up for a child lost, but today’s sentence sends a message that we will work tirelessly to bring justice to anyone who uses children as shields in the drug trade.” Following the sentencing, the victim’s mother, Zoila Dominici, expressed her grief, emphasizing that no apology could bring back her son.

According to reports, Mendez had previously removed her own child from the daycare out of concern for possible fentanyl exposure, yet continued to operate the facility, putting other children at risk. The emotional weight of the incident and the sentencing reverberated through the community, highlighting the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis across the nation.

Dominici’s parents expressed their heartbreak and anger, stating, “This is the worst nightmare any mother could face,” while also acknowledging their desire for justice. Mendez has also received five years of supervised release following her prison term.

The case has captured significant media attention and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers intertwined with drug trafficking in areas meant to safeguard children. If you suspect child abuse, please reach out to available resources for help, including the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.