Irvin Cartagena, 39, has pleaded guilty in connection to the death of actor Michael K. Williams from an accidental overdose caused by fentanyl-laced heroin in September 2021.
Irvin Cartagena, according to TMZ, appeared in federal court in Manhattan on Wednesday. In connection with William’s fatal overdose in 2021, he allegedly pleads guilty to “one count of conspiring to distribute drugs.”
Irvin Cartagena now faces a “mandatory minimum of five years in prison,” according to the outlet. However, according to the outlet, the suspect could face up to 40 years in prison.
Cartagena was initially facing additional charges and could have faced life in prison, according to the outlet. However, the 39-year-old accepted a plea bargain and admitted guilt to only one charge.
According to AP News, Cartagena’s sentencing has been set for August 18 by U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams.
According to TMZ, federal prosecutors slammed Irvin Cartagena and other suspects linked to Williams’ death, explaining that the suspects sold fentanyl-laced heroin in broad daylight on Brooklyn and Manhattan streets.
Additionally, U.S. Attorney Damian Williams also alleged that the dealers continued to brazenly sell drugs “without a second thought,” even after Williams’ passing.
According to The New York Times, three other suspects have also been charged along with Cartagena. Carlos Macci, known as “Carlito,” plead guilty to narcotics conspiracy on Tuesday and will be sentenced in July. While Hector Robles, known as “Oreja,” and Luis Cruz, known as “Mostro,” continue to plead not guilty.
The Medical Examiner found Michael K. Williams accidentally died of “acute intoxication by the combined effects of fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, heroin and cocaine,” and the U.S. Attorney’s Office alleges he used the fentanyl-laced heroin purchased from the Brooklyn-based drug organization.
