Jocelyn Romero: Mom charged after 2-year-old son found dead with fentanyl in bloodstream

COBB COUNTY, GEORGIA: Cobb County police are currently investigating a Georgia mother after her deceased son was found to have fentanyl in his bloodstream. 

According to statements from the Cobb County Police Department, Jocelyn Romero reported that her son had "silently choked on a piece of bread" while sleeping beside her at their residence in Kenwood Creek Apartments, Smyrna. 

She claimed she didn't notice anything wrong until she briefly left the room, as per CrimeOnline. 

What did the toxicology report say? 

The toxicology report showed that a month before the victim's death, Homeland Security agents conducted a raid on Romero's home, confiscating fentanyl and almost 30 grams of cocaine.

Subsequently, it was revealed that the victim had unrestricted access to these drugs, resulting in charges against Romero for trafficking and reckless conduct.

Upon contacting the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services, Cobb County Bureau Chief Michele Newell sought clarification on why the defendant retained custody of the boy following the drug charges. 

In reply, the station received the following statement: "DHS/DFCS is obligated by both state and federal laws to safeguard the privacy of the individuals we assist."

It added, "As such, we are unable to comment on the specifics of any reported abuse or neglect cases. We take seriously every report that might be made to the agency and work with law enforcement when appropriate to ensure the safety of Georgia’s children.”

Following the death of a child, a neighbor Brianna Lee expressed her dismay, “It’s really kind of hard to hear, really. Having a 3-year-old that just turned three.”

The neighbor also added, “She wasn’t caring for the child. If you got raided for drugs you weren’t caring for that child in no way, shape, or form.”

Mother found unresponsive child with blue lips

On the morning of December 4, 2023, Romero found the child unresponsive with blue lips, after returning from the bathroom

Nearly a month later, on January 10, Romero was arrested and is currently being held without bond, as per WSB-TV

Additional aspects of the case are still under investigation, and it is presently unclear when Romero will make her next court appearance or if she has obtained legal counsel to guide her through the uncertain path ahead.