A Suffolk woman, Jessica Alyse Cirilli, 41, was arrested on Saturday in connection with the recent drug overdose death of 17-year-old James Jolley in Portsmouth, Virginia. Cirilli has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and several drug-related offenses after allegedly supplying fentanyl to the teen, resulting in his tragic death.
What Happened
On October 11, Portsmouth Police responded to a call about an unresponsive individual in the 4000 block of Wyndybrow Drive. Officers arrived and found James Jolley, who was later pronounced dead at the scene. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the cause of death was an accidental fentanyl overdose.
Following the discovery, an investigation revealed that Cirilli had supplied fentanyl to Jolley, who was identified as a family friend of Cirilli’s ex-boyfriend. Detectives found narcotics and paraphernalia at the scene, and further investigation—including surveillance footage and license plate reader data—confirmed Cirilli’s vehicle was in the area during the time of the transaction.
Charges Against Cirilli
Cirilli has been charged with several serious offenses, including:
- Involuntary Manslaughter
- Possession with Intent to Distribute in a School Zone
- Possession with Intent to Distribute to a Minor
- Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule I or II Controlled Substance
- Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor
According to the criminal complaint, Cirilli and Jolley arranged a meeting on October 10, where Cirilli delivered fentanyl to him. Communications between the two included coded references to fentanyl and instructions to keep the transaction secret. The narcotics recovered from the scene tested positive for fentanyl.
Family’s Reaction and Call for Action
The news of Jolley’s death has devastated his family. His grandmother, Angie Godfrey, found him unresponsive in his room and attempted CPR before calling 911. “My baby was gone, there are no words,” she said. His uncle, Chris Jolley, expressed shock that someone they considered a family friend could be involved in his death. “She knew better,” he said.
In the wake of this tragedy, the family is determined to educate others about the dangers of fentanyl. They hope to raise awareness in high schools to warn students about the deadly risks of the drug. “We want the kids to be scared of this drug because why read a book if you already know the ending,” Chris Jolley said.
The family also hopes to push for legislation that targets fentanyl dealers, in honor of James’ memory.
Impact of the New Statute
The charges against Cirilli mark the first time Portsmouth Police have applied a new state statute addressing involuntary manslaughter in relation to certain drug offenses. This statute, which went into effect in July, allows for more severe consequences for individuals responsible for drug-related deaths.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Efforts
Portsmouth Police are continuing their investigation, and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward. The Portsmouth Police Investigations Bureau can be reached at 757-393-8536, or tips can be submitted anonymously through the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP or at P3Tips.com.
The police also urge parents and guardians to have ongoing conversations with their children about the risks of illicit drugs.
Closing Line
This story may be updated as more information becomes available.
The post Suffolk Woman Arrested for Fentanyl Distribution in Death of Churchland Teen first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
