Atlantic County Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Providing Fentanyl That Killed Two Teenagers

New Jersey Authorities Secure Conviction Under State’s Strict Liability Drug-Induced Death Law

EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, N.J. – An Atlantic County man has been sentenced to 15 years in state prison for supplying fentanyl-laced pills that led to the fatal overdoses of two teenagers, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin and the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) announced.

On March 10, 2025, Elias Santiago, 27, of Egg Harbor Township, was sentenced by Atlantic County Superior Court Judge Jeffrey J. Waldman to two concurrent 15-year sentences under New Jersey’s strict liability drug-induced death statute. Santiago will be required to serve 85% of his sentence before becoming eligible for parole, per the No Early Release Act (N.E.R.A.).

Santiago had pleaded guilty on December 16, 2024, to two counts of first-degree strict liability drug-induced death, admitting his role in distributing counterfeit Percocet pills laced with fentanyl and methamphetamine to the victims.

“The defendant sold deadly, illegal drugs disguised as Percocet, leading directly to the overdose deaths of two teenagers,” said Attorney General Platkin. “This case highlights the tragic consequences when callous drug dealers sell their dangerous products to unsuspecting users, who don’t even know what they’re really getting. It only takes a small amount of the wrong illegal drug to result in a tragedy like this. This dealer has now learned the price he will pay for his role in these deaths.”

Fatal Overdose of Two Teenagers Leads to Investigation

The case originated on August 17, 2022, when 14-year-old A.P. and 17-year-old M.M. were found unresponsive at A.P.’s home in Chester County, Pennsylvania, by A.P.’s father. Both teens were rushed to a Delaware hospital, where they were pronounced deceased.

Autopsies later confirmed that both teenagers died from fentanyl ingestion.

Upon searching the bedroom where the victims were found, Pennsylvania State Police discovered additional pills in a backpack, which were tested and confirmed to contain fentanyl and methamphetamine. Investigators soon traced the source of the drugs back to Santiago.

Encrypted Messaging App Led Police to Drug Supplier

Using M.M.’s cellphone, detectives found records showing that M.M. had purchased the pills from Santiago on August 16, 2022, in Sea Isle City, New Jersey. Authorities uncovered that Santiago was operating a drug sales group on Telegram, an encrypted messaging platform. The group, called "BaldysRUS," displayed videos, photos, and pricing for various controlled substances.

Pennsylvania authorities then contacted the New Jersey State Police to assist in the investigation.

Search Warrant and Drug Seizure

Detectives discovered that Santiago was distributing drugs from his home in Egg Harbor City. On September 22, 2022, police executed a search warrant at his residence, where they seized:

• Counterfeit pills similar to those found at the scene of the teenagers' overdoses
• Drug packaging materials matching those found in M.M.'s backpack

New Jersey's Strict Drug Laws Hold Distributors Accountable

As part of his guilty plea, Santiago admitted that he knowingly sold M.M. counterfeit Percocet pills that were actually laced with fentanyl and methamphetamine. He further acknowledged that these pills led directly to the deaths of M.M. and A.P.

Santiago was prosecuted under New Jersey’s strict liability drug-induced death law (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-9), a provision enacted under the Comprehensive Drug Reform Act of 1987. This law holds drug distributors criminally liable for any overdose deaths caused by the substances they provide, regardless of whether the victim voluntarily consumed the drug. The statute applies to all individuals involved in the drug distribution chain, not just the person who directly sold the fatal dose.

“The sentencing of this individual serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of the fentanyl epidemic,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “Two young lives were tragically lost due to the reckless actions of someone who prioritized profit over human life. Our thoughts remain with the families who will forever feel the pain of this loss. Holding those who distribute these lethal substances accountable is not just a matter of law enforcement—it’s a moral obligation. The New Jersey State Police, along with our partners, will continue to pursue those who poison our communities and endanger our children.”

Attorney General Praises Law Enforcement Cooperation

Attorney General Platkin commended the Pennsylvania State Police, New Jersey State Police, and the Atlantic County Sheriff’s Office for their collaborative efforts in the investigation.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Attorney General Evgeniya Sitnikova and Assistant Attorney General Erik Daab of the Division of Criminal Justice.

Preventing Future Overdose Deaths

The opioid epidemic—particularly the rise of fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills—has led to a surge in fatal overdoses across the country. Law enforcement officials urge the public to be aware that illegally obtained prescription pills may contain deadly substances, even if they appear legitimate.

For those struggling with opioid addiction, resources are available through the New Jersey Addiction Services Hotline at 1-844-REACHNJ (1-844-732-2465).

This case serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of fentanyl and the legal consequences of drug distribution that results in death.