New York City – Federal authorities have indicted two teenagers from Queens for supplying fentanyl that resulted in the death of a Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) student and the sexual assault of another student in a campus dormitory.
Charges and alleged actions
The indictment alleges that 19‑year‑old Moises Freire obtained fentanyl from 18‑year‑old Brian Peralta and brought the drug to the victims’ undergraduate residence hall on March 18. Freire told the victims the substance was “pure cocaine,” a claim prosecutors say was false.
According to the complaint, Freire encouraged the two women to ingest the drug. Both lost consciousness almost immediately. While they were incapacitated, Freire allegedly raped one of the victims in her FIT dorm room. He then waited about 45 minutes before alerting campus security, falsely stating the students had simply consumed too much alcohol.
Medical response and outcomes
Campus security responded, administered emergency aid including Narcan, and transported both victims to Manhattan hospitals. Toxicology reports later confirmed that both women had ingested fentanyl and no cocaine.
The second victim regained consciousness after life‑saving treatment. The first victim remained in critical condition and later died from complications of acute fentanyl intoxication.
Federal response
U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald said, “This case alleges not only the deadly distribution of fentanyl to two young women but also the sexual assault of a victim rendered defenseless by that poisoning. We will work tirelessly to hold accountable those who endanger young people living and learning on our campuses.”
Christopher Roberts, head of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New York Task Force Division, called the allegations “beyond disturbing,” adding that “college should be a place where young people can learn, grow, and pursue their dreams, not a place where predators exploit their vulnerability.”
Potential penalties
Freire and Peralta are charged with conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance resulting in death. If convicted, each faces a minimum of 20 years in federal prison. Freire also faces an additional charge of distributing a controlled substance with the intent to commit sexual assault.
Community impact
The tragedy has sparked concern among students, parents, and local leaders about drug safety and campus security. FIT officials have pledged to review safety protocols and increase awareness of the dangers of illicit substances. Community groups are urging colleges across the city to strengthen education on the risks of fentanyl and to provide resources for victims of sexual assault.
Authorities continue to investigate the source of the fentanyl and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
