Murder charges filed in overdose death at Oklahoma County Jail

The Oklahoma County District Attorney has filed murder charges against two men already in custody at the county jail. Investigators say Juan Enriquez and Gary Grass provided fentanyl to another inmate, Vincent Riggie, who later died from an apparent drug overdose.

A growing problem: drugs smuggled into the jail

Jail officials have long struggled with drugs being smuggled into the facility. However, this is the first time murder charges have been filed in connection with an overdose death at the jail. Since Riggie’s death, nearly 20 other inmates have overdosed due to fentanyl-laced contraband. Approximately 50 doses of Narcan have been administered, saving multiple lives.

Swift investigation and strong deterrent message

CEO Brandi Garner praised the work of the 8-person investigative unit.

“Our investigators are doing a bang-up job,” Garner said. "I think it also helps that we have a crime analyst, that new."

Enriquez and Grass, both already face drug-related charges, are now also charged with murder after surveillance footage showed them passing fentanyl to each other and to Riggie. After the exchange, Riggie was found unresponsive and given Narcan but did not survive.

Efforts to Combat Contraband and Improve Security

Garner has made significant strides to reduce contraband entering the jail. New measures include more thorough mail scanning, periodic searches with K9 units, and more stringent background checks for employees. The jail has also extended training for detention officers to 8 weeks.

Proactive Approach by District Attorney’s Office

So far this month, the District Attorney’s Office has investigated and charged 12 contraband-related cases, underscoring the continued efforts to combat the influx of dangerous drugs within the jail. "I think that sends a strong deterrence message," Garner said. "We have greatly reduced the amount of contraband coming into this facility, it is drastically reduced."