Heroin dealer arrested 9 months after Venice fatal overdose: Police

VENICE, Fla. - A nine-month investigation into a Venice man's fatal overdose has resulted in the arrest of a 41-year-old heroin dealer, according to police.

Justin Companion was taken into custody on Monday after Venice police determined that he sold heroin to James Harrington III, a sale that became deadly on Jan. 17.

Companion has been charged with second-degree homicide.

Courtesy: Venice Police Department.

This crime falls under the Florida Drug-Induced Homicide Law, which allows prosecutors to hold drug distributors responsible when the sale or delivery of a controlled substance results in death.

What they're saying:

The Venice Police Department released the following statement:

"This is a significant step forward in our ongoing fight against the devastating effects of illegal narcotics in our community," said Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring. "Florida’s Drug-Induced Homicide Law gives law enforcement a powerful tool to hold dealers accountable for the lives lost to their actions. Every overdose death is a tragedy, and our department will continue to pursue justice for the victims and families impacted by this epidemic."

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Other charges

• Sale of a schedule 1 narcotic (heroin)
• Criminal use of a two-way communication device

Companion is currently being held without bond at the Sarasota County Jail. The case will be prosecuted by the 12th Judicial Circuit.

What you can do:

Anyone who has information about illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact Venice police at 941-486-2444 or submit an anonymous tip through Sarasota County Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-8477.

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