NYC College Student Dies After Alleged Drugging and Sexual Assault in Dorm

Maya Olechno ‘29 

Prosecutors say that a New York City college student died after Moises Freire, 19, gave her fentanyl while claiming it was cocaine, according to Michael R. Sisak, an Associated Press reporter. The student and her friend quickly lost consciousness after taking the drug. The student fell into a coma and died three days later, while her friend barely survived it. 

Freire is also accused of sexually assaulting the unconscious student. Another man, Brian Peralta Cabrera, 18, was charged in connection with the drug distribution conspiracy. 

Both men have pled not guilty to earlier charges and remain in federal custody. If convicted of the new charges, they could face at least 20 years in prison or a life sentence. 

Prosecutors say the case shows the serious dangers of drug-related crimes and the importance of keeping college students safe.