In a historic verdict for Fresno County, a jury has convicted 24-year-old Cassidy Marie Gonzalez of second-degree murder in the fentanyl overdose death of 41-year-old Jade Dreith.

This is the county’s first-ever jury conviction in a fentanyl-related homicide trial.

“Today, our office has delivered justice for Jade’s family by securing the first-ever jury conviction in a fentanyl murder trial in Fresno County,” said District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp in a news release. “This verdict reaffirms our commitment to protecting communities, seeking justice, and holding those accountable who distribute illicit fentanyl.”

The release states that since 2021, the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office has led efforts to combat fentanyl, from community outreach and policy advocacy to aggressive prosecution. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid over 50 times stronger than heroin, poses extreme overdose risks.

Gonzalez remains in Fresno County Jail and faces sentencing on April 24. Second-degree murder carries a potential 15-year-to-life sentence.
Senior Deputy District Attorney Kendall Reynolds and Commander Michael Johns were instrumental in prosecuting the case, earning recognition from Smittcamp for their dedication to justice.