The Gwinnett County Police Department has arrested two suspects in connection to the overdose death of a 16-year-old girl.

Dino Runar Bonasera (age 17, Atlanta) was arrested and charged with felony murder, aggravated involuntary manslaughter by causing fentanyl overdose death, sale of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance and use of communication facility in commission of a felony involving controlled substances. A second juvenile (age 16, Atlanta) was also arrested and is being charged as an adult. She is charged with felony murder, aggravated involuntary manslaughter by causing a fentanyl overdose death, sale of a controlled substance and use of communication facility in commission of a felony involving controlled substances.

The Gwinnett County Police Department has reported a 30 percent decrease in fatal overdoses so far this year. The department’s Narcotics Unit continues to intentionally focus on narcotics dealers, resulting in a 60 percent increase in fentanyl-related arrests by aggressively investigating overdose cases. Since the enactment of Austin’s Law in April, seven individuals have been charged with Aggravated Involuntary Manslaughter. Austin’s Law, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, aims to hold those responsible for drug-related deaths more accountable.

The Gwinnett County Police Department also wants to remind the public that anyone who seeks medical help in good faith for someone experiencing a drug overdose will not be arrested, charged, or prosecuted for drug-related offenses that arise solely from seeking assistance.

Families are encouraged to have open conversations with their loved ones, especially youth and young adults, about the dangers of experimenting with narcotics, illegally obtained prescription drugs, and counterfeit prescription drugs like the ones pictured above. Raising awareness can play a crucial role in preventing overdoses.

The Gwinnett County Narcotics Unit needs the community’s help in curbing illicit drug activity. To report suspicious drug activity, residents can call the narcotics tip line at 770.513.5480.