One person has been charged with manslaughter in relation to the overdose death of a child from 2023.
On Sept. 4, 2023, Sault Ste. Marie Police were sent to a multi-unit residence building in the 300 block of Albert Street West for a welfare check on a child.
Officers arrived at around 8:30 p.m. and were let into the residence where they found an unresponsive child.
Police requested EMS, administered naloxone and attempted CPR, however the child was pronounced deceased by paramedics.
An autopsy report determined the child had overdosed on fentanyl, police said on Thursday in a news release.
On Wednesday, March 5, detectives located and arrested 42-year-old Paul Firlotte, who was held in custody pending a bail hearing.
None of the allegations have been tested in court and the accused is considered innocent unless proven guilty.
"The tragic loss of this young life is a stark reminder of the devastation fentanyl inflicts on our community,” says Chief Hugh Stevenson in the news release.
“Our officers remain steadfast in their commitment to holding those who distribute this poison accountable. We will continue to work tirelessly to remove these deadly substances from our streets and seek justice for the victims."