Alexis Smith sentenced in Carlsbad fentanyl death of 12-year-old son

Alexis Smith was sentenced Wednesday afternoon in Carlsbad for her role in her son’s fatal overdose. Judge Lisa Riley ordered the mother to serve 14 years in prison for the child abuse convictions.

Officers arrested Smith in September of 2021. Her 12-year-old child overdosed at her mother’s home. Police were called there after finding the boy unresponsive in a shed.

A statement from the boy’s father was read aloud in the Carlsbad courtroom. Victim advocate Samantha Dewer read the remarks on behalf of Chris Murray.

“That is all that mattered to Lexi from 2019 through 2021, so much so that the precious life she brought into this world she let slip away,” Dewer said. “The lack of concern she had after knowing Brent was using her drugs is truly disheartening.”

Evidence presented during the trial revealed both women sold fentanyl. The boy took pills from their stash for at least one full year.

The victim overdosed three times prior to the fatal incident. Neither relative took the child to a hospital for emergency medical care. They revived him at home with Narcan.

Cousin Mary Pope addressed the court on Wednesday regarding the tragedy.

“We all have opportunities to make choices in our lives. Sometimes we make choices that come with horrible, horrible consequences and that’s the case in this situation [be]cause Brent’s life cannot be returned here,” Pope said.

A jury convicted Smith in September of intentional child abuse resulting in death. She was also convicted of child abuse.

Child abuse charges resulting in death carry substantial prison sentences under state legal codes. Convicted defendants face formal sentencing hearings before a district judge determines their custody terms. Judges hear impact statements from family representatives before imposing a final judgment.

Co-defendant Kellie Smith is charged with child abuse and intentional child abuse resulting in death in Carlsbad. Her jury trial is scheduled to begin on Monday.