82-Year-Old Caretaker Accused of Supplying Minors With Meth, Fentanyl and Marijuana After Deputies Search Her Home

United States — An 82-year-old woman acting as a caretaker for several minors is now facing multiple felony charges after deputies discovered marijuana, methamphetamine and fentanyl inside her residence, along with allegations that she sold drugs to a juvenile. Authorities first received a tip on December 5 reporting that juveniles were using controlled substances inside the woman’s home, prompting an immediate investigation.

Deputies Find Drugs Inside the Home During Initial Visit

According to information reported by WTRF, deputies responded to the residence after receiving reports of drug activity involving minors. When law enforcement first arrived, five juveniles were inside the home, but the caretaker — identified as 82-year-old Mary Kennedy — was nowhere to be found.

During a preliminary sweep of the property, deputies found a “Twisted Tea” box containing marijuana inside one of the bedrooms. The discovery gave investigators enough reason to pursue a broader search of the home once they secured a warrant.

Search Warrant Reveals Methamphetamine and Fentanyl

After obtaining the warrant, deputies conducted a more extensive search of the residence. Inside the same bedroom where marijuana had been found, officers located another container holding methamphetamine, which they believe Kennedy purchased for her own personal use. However, deputies allege that the juveniles in the home had been accessing and using drugs directly from her supply, putting them in severe danger.

A pill bottle labeled with Kennedy’s name was also discovered in the home. The bottle contained methamphetamine that later tested positive for fentanyl, an extremely dangerous combination that significantly increases overdose risk. Investigators emphasized that these substances were unsecured and accessible, raising serious concerns about child safety.

Kennedy Allegedly Admits to Buying, Using and Selling Meth to a Minor

During questioning, Kennedy reportedly admitted to purchasing methamphetamine, using some herself, and selling the remaining portion to a minor staying inside the residence. Deputies said her statements aligned with the evidence found inside the home and supported the allegations made in the initial complaint.

Authorities stressed that although the drugs were accessible to multiple juveniles, there were no reports of immediate physical harm among the minors present. Even so, officials note that the presence of fentanyl — even in trace amounts — creates a life-threatening environment, especially for children.

Charges Filed Including Child Neglect and Drug Distribution

Following the investigation, Kennedy was charged with:

• Five counts of child neglect
• Possession with intent to deliver controlled substances
• Additional charges related to methamphetamine and fentanyl

She was taken into custody and issued a $100,000 bond, reflecting the severity of the accusations and the potential risk posed to the juveniles under her care. Officials are continuing their investigation and determining whether additional charges may be warranted based on the evidence recovered and the minors’ statements.

This case raises significant concerns regarding elder caretakers, drug accessibility around minors, and the dangers of fentanyl contamination inside residential environments. Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspected drug activity, particularly when children are involved. For ongoing updates on major cases, public safety concerns and national crime coverage, visit NapervilleLocal.com.