California Drug Dealer Cleared of Murder in Fentanyl Death of High School Senior

POLICY WIRE — Napa, California — A California drug dealer has been found not guilty of murder and involuntary manslaughter in the fentanyl-related death of a 17-year-old high school student who passed away just weeks before her graduation.

Alan Jazeel Martinez, 25, was acquitted following a three-and-a-half-week trial concerning the death of Vintage High School senior Monica Flores. Flores was discovered deceased at her Napa home on May 25, 2022, as announced by Napa County District Attorney Allison Haley.

Martinez faced accusations of selling Flores fentanyl-laced pills on May 10 and May 16, 2022, and of possessing and transporting fentanyl with intent to sell, according to prosecutors. Despite the acquittal regarding her death, Martinez was convicted on six felony charges related to fentanyl: two counts each of selling fentanyl to a minor, possessing it for sale, and transporting it for sale.

The court determined that Martinez has a prior serious felony conviction, which qualifies as a “strike” under California law. Deputy District Attorney Katie Gross expressed the family’s quest for accountability and respect for the jury’s decision, despite their disappointment with the murder charge verdict.

Gross highlighted the significance of the convictions for selling fentanyl to a minor and for possessing and transporting fentanyl for sale, hoping they offer some accountability. Deputy District Attorney Diadur emphasized the jury’s challenging task and extended thoughts to Monica’s friends and family.

Monica’s family described her as an animal lover who cherished the outdoors and was recognized for her distinctive pink car. The Napa County District Attorney’s Office charged Martinez and another man, Luis Fajardo Melgoza, with murder in 2023. Melgoza pleaded no contest to second-degree murder in 2024. A third defendant, Erika Garcia Chavez, also pleaded no contest in 2024 to charges of possessing a controlled substance for sale and conspiracy.

This case marks the first instance in Napa County where a person accused of supplying fentanyl was charged with murder over a fentanyl-related death. Martinez is scheduled to appear in Napa County Superior Court for sentencing on September 28 at 8:30 a.m.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)