A Florida woman is currently in custody following the tragic death of her five-year-old son, who ingested methamphetamine through his apple juice container. Heather Opsincs is facing charges of aggravated manslaughter in connection with her son’s death, as reported by the Riviera Police Department. The police were called to an apartment on Beach Court on the evening of March 23, responding to a report of a child who was not breathing. The child, whose identity has not been disclosed, was rushed to the hospital but unfortunately did not survive.
The police investigation revealed that the child was under the supervision of a babysitter when he took a sip from an apple juice container. The babysitter reported that the child immediately spat out the juice, complaining that it tasted strange. Shortly after, the child began to exhibit alarming symptoms, including shivering, shaking, and turning blue. He then started to lose consciousness. The babysitter promptly alerted Opsincs and initiated CPR.
Opsincs, in her statement to the police, said she was cleaning out her cooler at the back of the apartment complex when she was informed about her son’s condition. She rushed back to her apartment to find her son exhibiting seizure-like symptoms and his pulse weakening. Opsincs confessed to purchasing edible mushrooms but denied consuming any drugs. However, she tested positive for methamphetamine, a result she claimed was false. A second test also came back positive for methamphetamine. Tragically, her son also tested positive for the drug.
A search of Opsincs’ apartment revealed a disturbing scene. The living conditions were described as “deplorable,” with rotting food and trash scattered throughout the apartment. Police also found six glass pipes that tested positive for methamphetamine. Opsincs informed the police that her son was on the autism spectrum and required special care. It was later discovered that Opsincs had contacted poison control two months prior when her son had licked bleach at home. Investigators believe that Opsincs’ negligence and the unsuitable living conditions contributed to her son’s death.
During a pretrial hearing, a judge described the case as “pretty egregious,” as reported by local NBC affiliate WPTV. Opsincs’ bond was set at $100,000, and she remains in custody at the Palm Beach County Jail. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April 22.