Mother charged with double murder in connection with suspected overdose deaths of twin boys

Police respond to a possible overdose of two young children in Winnetka on July 11, 2024. (KTLA)

A mother has been charged with double murder in the deaths of her 3-year-old twin sons who were killed in a suspected overdose last week in San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, prosecutors said Tuesday.

The tragic incident occurred shortly after 11:00 a.m. on July 11 and prompted emergency responders to respond to a residence in the 20100 block of Sherman Way.

Paramedics attempted to save the lives of the boys, whom prosecutors identified as Josiah and Jestine, before both were taken to a local hospital.

Josiah died in the hospital that same evening and Jestine was pronounced dead two days later, on July 13.

“These innocent boys reportedly came into contact with fentanyl, an opioid that has wreaked havoc in our communities,” said Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón. “This tragedy is part of a disturbing trend in which babies and young children are increasingly falling victim to the opioid crisis.”

The boys’ mother, 22-year-old Jestice James, was arrested on suspicion of murder and held on $2 million bail following Josiah’s death.

She is now charged with two counts of murder and two counts of child abuse or endangerment under circumstances likely to result in serious bodily harm or death.

According to prosecutors, her bail was increased to $4 million.

“The deadly effects of fentanyl cannot be overstated and it is our shared responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves,” Gascón said.

If convicted, Jestice faces a life sentence in prison.