Mother charged after 15-year-old boy dies from drug use while unsupervised in home

In a devastating incident in Oklahoma, a 44-year-old mother named L. Henckel is now facing serious legal repercussions after the tragic passing of her 15-year-old son, C. Sanchez, due to a fentanyl overdose.

Henckel has been charged with child neglect as authorities uncovered a series of negligent actions that ultimately led to her son’s untimely death.

Sanchez’s life was characterized by continuous neglect and exposure to harmful environments while under his mother’s care, which authorities believe played a significant role in his tragic death.

This situation reached a critical point on December 2, 2023, when authorities responded to an emergency call concerning a drug overdose at their residence. Upon arrival, first responders discovered Sanchez unresponsive and immediately transported him to the hospital.

Unfortunately, three days later, he was pronounced dead as a result of fentanyl intoxication. The dangerous and neglectful nature of Sanchez’s environment was evident from the presence of drug paraphernalia and alcohol in his room.

Throughout Sanchez’s life, his mother, who has battled drug addiction, has faced numerous accusations, including leaving her son unsupervised for extended periods and allowing him access to drugs and alcohol.

Sanchez’s difficulties were extensively documented, as Oklahoma’s Department of Human Services received 22 referrals expressing concerns about drug use, unsanitary living conditions, and a lack of supervision in his home.

Despite these repeated warnings, the necessary interventions failed to be implemented in time to protect Sanchez from the hazards within his own residence. According to the victim’s girlfriend, Sanchez frequently went without food, lacked supervision, had unrestricted freedom, and was not required to attend school.

On the tragic night of his overdose, Henckel confessed to leaving Sanchez alone to indulge in drug use with friends, only to return and discover him unresponsive.

Unfortunately, her subsequent actions, such as breaking into her own home and seeking assistance from neighbors, could not reverse the grave situation she had allowed to unfold.

After her son’s tragic death, Henckel found herself in custody, facing charges of child neglect. She is currently being held in jail on a $100,000 bond. The local community and authorities are overwhelmed with sadness and frustration, as they believe this heartbreaking incident could have been prevented.

Lieutenant TJ Low of the Stillwater Police Department commented on the case, emphasizing the destructive impact of addiction and the unnecessary loss of a young life.

Detective J. Carson, reflecting on the investigation, pointed out the evident signs of neglect and how Sanchez had unrestricted freedom to engage in harmful behaviors due to his mother’s lack of supervision.

This particular case has sparked conversations about parental responsibilities and the crucial role of social services in intervening before such tragedies occur.

Despite the chaos in his early years, Sanchez is fondly remembered by his friends and loved ones as a young boy who had a passion for basketball, music, and enjoying time by the lake. His obituary reflects his deep longing for love and acceptance, particularly from his parents.

As the community mourns the loss of a young life, there is a collective demand for accountability and change to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Henckel is scheduled to appear in court next month, where the repercussions of her actions will be further addressed.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the crucial importance of parental responsibility and the devastating consequences of neglect.

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