NEWS RELEASE
MICHIGAN STATE POLICE
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Detectives from the Traverse Narcotics Team investigated a fentanyl overdose death in South Boardman (Kalkaska County) on June 13, 2023. Through the investigation, a suspect from Muskegon was identified as the dealer who delivered the deadly substance.
On July 25, 2023, detectives conducted a controlled purchase of fentanyl from the suspect in the delivery causing death case. This delivery occurred in Benzie County where the suspect was known to frequently deal illegal narcotics.
On Sept. 18, Elijah Aguero, 18 years old, was arrested for one count of delivery of a controlled substance causing death and he was lodged in the Kalkaska County jail. Aguero was 17 years old at the time of the original offense of delivery causing death but was charged as an adult.
Charges were later authorized by the Benzie County prosecutor’s office for one count of delivery of fentanyl. Aguero is currently awaiting sentencing on his delivery causing death case and is progressing through the court process in Benzie County on his delivery of fentanyl case.
Delivery of a controlled substance causing death has a maximum penalty of life in prison and delivery of fentanyl is a 20-year felony.
TNT was assisted by MSP Traverse City Post, Kalkaska County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security InvestigationsSault Ste Marie and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
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