2 individuals indicted for supplying drugs leading to the demise of transgender advocate Cecilia Gentili, as per prosecutors
In New York, two individuals are facing charges for distributing heroin laced with fentanyl, which is believed to be the substance responsible for the passing of transgender advocate Cecilia Gentili in February. The announcement was made by prosecutors on Monday.
Two men in New York have been charged with distributing fentanyl-laced heroin that allegedly caused the death of transgender activist Cecilia Gentili in February, prosecutors announced Monday.
According to Breon Peace, the US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Cecilia Gentili, a prominent activist and leader in the New York transgender community, tragically passed away in her Brooklyn home after being poisoned by fentanyl-laced heroin. The individuals responsible for selling her the deadly drugs have now been apprehended.
The indictment states that Michael Kuilan and Antonio Venti are facing three felony charges related to the distribution and possession of fentanyl and heroin. Kuilan is also accused of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Gentili, who passed away at the age of 52 on February 6, was a respected figure in New York's transgender community. She was known for her advocacy for sex workers and individuals with HIV/AIDS. Her funeral at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City was attended by over 1,000 people, dressed in glittering sequins, feathered dresses, and veils. Following the service, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York expressed disapproval of the event.
Cecilia Gentiliâs casket is brought into St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, on February 15.
Cecilia Gentilis casket is brought into St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, on February 15.
Laura Oliverio/CNN
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Transgender icon Cecilia Gentili was recently honored at a renowned cathedral. The night before she passed away, Gentili came back home after being out for a while. She informed her partner of many years that she was not feeling well and then went to rest, as mentioned in a letter submitted by the prosecutor's office in support of the suspects' detention.
Gentili’s partner found her unresponsive the next morning, and unfortunately, she was later declared dead.
According to the letter, medical examiners concluded that her cause of death was “acute intoxication from a mix of fentanyl, heroin, xylazine, and cocaine. Gentili had dangerous levels of fentanyl and heroin in her blood.”
Prosecutors claim that Venti sold heroin laced with a dangerous substance supplied by Kuilan to Gentili on February 5. They pointed to text messages, cell site data, and other evidence to support their case. During a search of Kuilan's apartment in Brooklyn, authorities found numerous baggies of fentanyl, a handgun, and ammunition, according to prosecutors.
In response to Gentili's death, Venti's attorney, Joseph Turco, described it as an "accident" in a statement. He expressed remorse, saying, "We're sorry for Cecilia's death."
Our thoughts and prayers are with the activist's family during this difficult time. There is no denying that the situation is a major issue in America," Turco expressed.
According to Kuilan's attorney, Howard Greenberg, Kuilan had no connection to Gentili in any manner.
Greenberg clarified to CNN that Michael Kuilan has no connection with the person who passed away. He emphasized that his client has absolutely no involvement in the matter.
According to a spokesperson from the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, Venti and Kuilan are scheduled to appear in court again on April 22.
CNN’s Elizabeth Wolfe contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The tragic death of transgender activist Cecilia Gentili, allegedly caused by fentanyl-laced heroin, highlights the devastating impact of this dangerous drug on the transgender community. Gentili's passing is a stark reminder of the urgent need for harm reduction and addiction treatment services tailored to the specific needs of trans people. The charges against Michael Kuilan and Antonio Venti, who allegedly distributed the fatal drugs, underscore the importance of holding those accountable for the proliferation of fentanyl.
Gentili's life and activism should inspire us to continue fighting for the rights and safety of transgender people. Her advocacy for sex workers and individuals with HIV/AIDS demonstrated her deep commitment to marginalized communities. The outpouring of support at her funeral, despite disapproval from the Archdiocese of New York, is a testament to the enduring legacy she leaves behind. As we mourn Gentili's loss, let us honor her memory by working tirelessly to create a more just and equitable world for all transgender individuals.
