by MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – A drug dealer has been convicted in the fentanyl-related death of U.S. Army combat veteran Justin Fortin, marking the first fentanyl murder conviction in Montgomery County history.
James Carter Smith Jr. was found guilty by a unanimous jury under a 2023 Texas law that allows prosecutors to charge individuals who supply drugs that result in a person’s death. The law was passed just a month before Fortin died.
Key Points:
- Convicted: James Carter Smith Jr.
- Victim: Justin Fortin, U.S. Army veteran
- Significance: First fentanyl murder conviction in Montgomery County
- Law: New Texas law enacted in 2023 making such charges possible
- Potential sentence: Up to 50 years in prison
- Evidence: Text messages and phone data linking Smith to drug deals with Fortin
- Front operation: Smith ran a clothing store used as a front for selling drugs
- Prior convictions: Smith has previous drug-related offenses
Fortin’s Struggles and Service:
Fortin served two combat tours with the 82nd Airborne but returned home suffering from PTSD and chronic pain. He eventually became addicted to alcohol and fentanyl, despite efforts to recover, including rehab and a stay at Camp Hope. His family says he had previously survived an overdose and was actively trying to recover.
The family expressed both pain and gratitude, acknowledging law enforcement’s diligent work in securing the conviction. Prosecutors Laura Bond and Donna Hansen said good police work, along with digital evidence and surveillance footage, helped them build a strong case despite the legal challenge of proving fentanyl murder.
The Fortin family now hopes their son’s story will raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and inspire others to seek help for loved ones battling addiction.
