FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — A 19-year-old woman is facing serious charges after allegedly selling fentanyl-laced pills that led to the overdose death of another young woman in Forsyth County.
The incident occurred in July when Makayla Peacock, also 19, purchased the deadly drugs from Mallery James in a Taco Bell parking lot.
According to Sandy Springs Police, who shared details of the case on social media, Peacock bought the pills for $100 from James. Shortly after consuming the pills, Peacock died from a fentanyl overdose.
James has been charged with aggravated involuntary manslaughter, a charge made possible under a new law signed by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp in April. Known as “Austin’s Law,” the legislation allows for the conviction of individuals who cause another person’s death by manufacturing or selling substances containing fentanyl.
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is noted for its extreme potency. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, it is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin.
The investigation into Peacock’s death remains ongoing as authorities seek to address the broader issue of fentanyl distribution in the area.
