WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County authorities have arrested three individuals linked to the overdose death of a pregnant woman in East Whiteland Township. On June 5, 2024, the East Whiteland Township Police responded to a distress call from a residence on Kelmar Avenue. The victim, a 35-year-old woman, was six months pregnant. Despite emergency efforts, she could not be revived. An autopsy confirmed she died from a mix of fentanyl, para-fluorofentanyl, xylazine, and methamphetamine.
Marty Jene Harrell Jr., 33, Davonne Marquis Dutton-Norris, 29, and Tajh Curry, 34, face charges related to corrupt organizations and possession with intent to deliver. Harrell and Dutton-Norris also face charges of drug delivery resulting in death. Chester County Detectives arrested the trio, who are currently held at Chester County Prison. Bail was set at $1,000,000 for Harrell and Dutton-Norris, while Curry’s bail is $250,000. Preliminary hearings are scheduled for September 19, 2024.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe emphasized the importance of accountability in the drug trade. “Those suffering from the disease of addiction deserve a chance at treatment, not death from a bad batch of drugs. That is why Chester County’s law enforcement will continue to work together to hold drug dealers accountable for their deadly drug sales,” he stated.
Investigations revealed communications between the victim and Harrell and Dutton-Norris, in which they allegedly discussed acquiring pressed fentanyl pills mimicking Percocet. Detectives identified a residence in Valley Township as a storage and distribution hub for illegal substances. A search warrant led to the seizure of various drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and suspected pressed pills.
Multiple law enforcement agencies collaborated on the investigation, including East Whiteland Township Police, Caln Police, Pennsylvania State Police, Coatesville City Police, Valley Township Police, and the Chester County Regional Emergency Response Team. Assistant District Attorney Jessica Acito is prosecuting the case. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the Chester County Detectives at 610-344-6866.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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