A heartbreaking story from Riviera Beach, Florida, details the death of a 5-year-old boy after ingesting apple juice believed to contain methamphetamine.This article explores the tragic circumstances surrounding the death and the resulting charges of neglect aggravated manslaughter against his mother. Learn about the investigation and the devastating impact of methamphetamine exposure on children.
Florida boy, 5, Dies After Ingesting Methamphetamine; Mother Charged
Table of Contents
Riviera Beach, Fla. — A tragic incident in Riviera Beach has resulted in the death of a 5-year-old boy after he consumed apple juice that authorities believe contained methamphetamine. His mother, Heather Opsincs, 37, now faces charges of neglect aggravated manslaughter in connection with the child’s death.
The Incident Unfolds
On Sunday, authorities responded to a call at approximately 5:30 p.m. regarding a child not breathing at an apartment on the 2400 block of Beach Court. Paramedics were already on the scene, tending to the young victim.
According to the arrest report, the babysitter witnessed the child take a bottle of apple juice and drink from it. The child then reportedly said it tasted weird
and spat it out.
Shortly thereafter, alarming symptoms began to manifest.
Key Symptoms Observed:
- Shivering and shaking
- Cold to the touch
- Excessive sweating
- Rashes forming on the front, back, and arms
The babysitter then saw the child become still, his head tilted down, and instantly began administering CPR. The report further detailed that the boy vomited black stuff
and experienced seizure-like symptoms.
The child was rushed to St. Mary’s hospital in critical condition but succumbed to the effects of methamphetamine ingestion.
Investigation and Arrest
Following the boy’s death, police questioned opsincs, who initially denied recent recreational drug use and claimed to have never used illegal drugs. However, a field drug test yielded positive results for methamphetamines, a result that was confirmed by a second test.
A toxicology report from the hospital corroborated thes findings, confirming the presence of methamphetamines in the child’s system.
A subsequent search of the one-room apartment, conducted under a warrant, revealed six glass cylinder pipes that tested positive for methamphetamines. The arrest report described the apartment as unkempt
and rather deplorable,
noting the presence of rotting food and trash.
Legal Proceedings
Opsincs was arrested and charged with neglect aggravated manslaughter in connection with her son’s death.She appeared in court March 25,where the judge ordered her to have no contact with witnesses or minor children.
Conditions of Bond:
- Bond set at $100,000
- Prohibited from consuming drugs or alcohol
- Prohibited from possessing firearms or weapons
- Subject to random drug testing at her expense
Opsincs is currently being held in Palm Beach County Jail. As of this report, a public defender for Opsincs has not responded to requests for comment.
