James Jason Hendershaw, Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Distribution Resulting in Death, California 2024

A San Diego man has been charged with distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine that resulted in the death of a 20-year-old San Diego resident.

According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, James Jason Hendershaw, 36, of Vista, California, was charged in an indictment unsealed this week with distributing the fentanyl and methamphetamine the night before the victim, identified in court records as R.J., was found unresponsive and lying on a sidewalk in Oceanside.

The Oceanside Police Department and Oceanside Fire Department responded to a 911 call a few minutes after 6 a.m. on January 10, 2019, and found the victim unresponsive. He was pronounced dead a few hours later.

Hendershaw is charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine resulting in death, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C). If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison.

“Prosecuting drug dealers who supply deadly fentanyl and methamphetamine is not just about accountability; it’s about preventing death by interrupting the supply chain,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “By identifying and charging the distributors, we send a clear message to the dealers of these toxins: You will be held accountable for the lives your product destroys.”

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Sausedo and Adam Gordon.

Hendershaw's case is ongoing, and he is currently being held without bail.

The U.S. Attorney's Office reminds the public that the charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/defendant-charged-distributing-fentanyl-and-methamphetamine-resulted-overdose-death