PORTLAND, Ore. — Manuel Antonio Souza Espinoza, the dealer responsible for supplying the fentanyl-laced counterfeit pill that led to the death of 16-year-old Griffin Hoffmann, was sentenced to over 13 years in prison in U.S. District Court on Tuesday.
Espinoza, who pleaded guilty in March as part of a plea agreement, donned a beige T-shirt, olive pants, and orange plastic shoes during his court appearance, where he was restrained with ankle shackles.
He responded briefly to the judge’s questions, offering only simple affirmations and denials.
The sentencing hearing was attended by around 40 individuals, including Griffin’s friends and his mother, Kerry Cohen, as well as family members of Espinoza.
In her statement, Cohen expressed her hope that Espinoza would use his time in prison to contribute positively to others’ lives in memory of Griffin.
Griffin’s father, Michael Hoffmann, addressed the court via video, conveying his deep anger and grief over his son’s death.
He condemned Espinoza as the embodiment of humanity’s worst traits, stating that the dealer profited from others’ suffering without earning it through hard work.
“Mr. Espinoza is the worst of humanity and deserves to be locked away for the rest of his life,” Hoffmann said, emphasizing the profound loss of potential due to his son’s untimely death.
Lesley Harper, a family friend, also spoke, extending her hopes for healing for both families affected by this tragedy.
Espinoza’s defense attorney, Scott Leonard, offered an apology on behalf of his client, stating that Espinoza felt genuine remorse for his actions, which he acknowledged were
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