Five charged in overdose death of Robert De Niro's grandson

October 31, 2025

New York authorities have charged five individuals with operating a fentanyl distribution ring that allegedly sold fake prescription opioid pills to young people through social media platforms during the first half of 2023. The suspects are accused of causing the overdose deaths of three teenagers, including Robert De Niro's grandson Leandro De Niro-Rodriguez and Akira Stein, whose father co-founded the band Blondie. Prosecutors claim the group used social media and encrypted messaging applications to distribute thousands of deadly fentanyl-laced pills disguised as legitimate prescription medications.

Who is affected

Three deceased victims: Leandro De Niro-Rodriguez (grandson of Robert De Niro), Akira Stein (daughter of Blondie co-founder Chris Stein), and one unnamed 19-year-old
The five charged suspects: Bruce Epperson, Eddie Barreto, Grant McIver, John Nicolas, and Roy Nicolas
Family members including Robert De Niro, his daughter Drena (Leandro's mother), and Chris Stein
Teenagers and young adults in New York City who were targeted customers of the distribution network

What action is being taken

The five suspects are being prosecuted on federal charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills.

Why it matters

This case highlights the deadly consequences of illicit fentanyl distribution targeting vulnerable young people through easily accessible social media platforms. The involvement of high-profile victims demonstrates that fentanyl overdoses affect families across all socioeconomic backgrounds. The severe mandatory minimum sentences (20 years to life) reflect the seriousness with which authorities are treating fentanyl distribution networks responsible for multiple deaths among teenagers.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC