Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 24 Years in Fentanyl-Related Death of Minor

A Scranton, PA resident has been sentenced to 24 years in federal prison following his conviction in the 2021 death of a 17-year-old who ingested a lethal dose of fentanyl-laced cocaine. The sentencing, handed down by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert D. Mariani on April 11, 2025, follows a jury’s guilty verdict on charges that include drug distribution resulting in death.

Federal prosecutors detailed that in July and August of 2021, Federico Rosario, 30, sold small quantities of cocaine to the minor. On August 11, Rosario provided the victim with 0.4 grams of a substance he identified as cocaine. Minutes later, the teenager messaged Rosario expressing concern about the effects, saying it felt like being drunk. A second message followed just eight seconds later, but Rosario never replied. The minor was found dead the following morning.

Toxicology results confirmed that the substance contained a combination of cocaine and fentanyl. According to expert testimony presented during the four-day trial, the presence of fentanyl—known to be significantly more potent than morphine—was the direct cause of death. The jury found Rosario guilty on three counts of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and one count of drug distribution resulting in death.

The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration in coordination with the Scranton Police Department. Prosecutors emphasized that the case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods, a federal initiative aimed at reducing violent crime through coordinated law enforcement and community engagement. Rosario’s sentencing represents a continued push to address the dangers of fentanyl-laced narcotics in local communities.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Middle District of Pennsylvania

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