On October 4, 2022, Samantha Russell died of fentanyl toxicity as a result of a single fentanyl or “mexi” pill that was provided to her by Mr. Taylor. After a lengthy and exhaustive investigation by the Lewiston Police Department, the Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office sought and obtained a grand jury indictment in April of 2023 charging Mr. Taylor with Involuntary Manslaughter for her death as well as Delivery of a Controlled Substance, both felonies. A Jury Trial for the case was set to start the morning of February 23rd, however prior to jury selection Mr. Taylor plead guilty to the Involuntary Manslaughter charge and a charge of Possession of a Controlled Substance-Fentanyl. The parties will be arguing sentencing to Judge Monson on July 12, 2024, where the State will be arguing for a lengthy prison sentence. This is the first conviction of manslaughter for a fentanyl overdose death in the State. “Samantha Russell was mother and daughter as well as friend to many people. When Mr. Taylor delivered this one small pill to Samantha, he also delivered her a death sentence,” said Prosecutor Justin Coleman. The significant efforts by the Lewiston Police Department ensured that this case could be pursued and justice could be sought for Samantha Russell, her family and the community. “I want to thank all the officers involved in working on this case and especially Detective Cpl. Cody Bloomsburg and Detective Cpl. Brett Dammon. Because of their hard work I believe drug dealers think twice before selling this poison in our community,” said Prosecutor Coleman. “These pills are incredibly dangerous and my office will continue to pursue charges against those individuals who prey on other’s addictions. When the new fentanyl statute goes into effect we will have an additional resource in this war,” Coleman continued.
