Venice Police Department pursues charge under Florida Drug-Induced Homicide Law, heroin distribution

 

 

Venice Police Department pursues charge under Florida Drug-Induced Homicide Law, heroin distribution

Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC

 

VPD

 

After a nine-month investigation, the Venice Police Department arrested Justin Companion, 41, of Venice, on Oct. 7, 2025, in connection with the distribution of heroin that resulted in the death of James Harrington III of Venice on Jan. 17, 2025.   

The arrest was made by the VPD Special Investigations Unit, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Appreciation Unit and Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. Following a comprehensive investigation by Venice Police, detectives determined that the heroin distributed by Companion directly caused Harrington’s fatal overdose.  

Companion is being charged with second-degree homicide under Florida Statute 782.04(4), the Florida Drug-Induced Homicide Law, which allows prosecutors to hold drug distributors criminally responsible when the sale or delivery of a controlled substance results in death. Additional charges include sale of a Schedule I narcotic (heroin) and the criminal use of a two-way communication device. Companion is currently being held without bond at the Sarasota County Jail.   

“This is a significant step forward in our ongoing fight against the devastating effects of illegal narcotics in our community,” said Venice Police Chief Andy Leisenring. “Florida’s Drug-Induced Homicide Law gives law enforcement a powerful tool to hold dealers accountable for the lives lost to their actions. Every overdose death is a tragedy, and our department will continue to pursue justice for the victims and families impacted by this epidemic.” 

The Venice Police Department worked closely with the State Attorney’s Office and SCSO throughout the investigation. The case will be prosecuted by the 12^th Judicial Circuit.  

Anyone with information related to illegal drug activity is encouraged to contact the Venice Police Department at 941-486-2444 or submit an anonymous tip through Sarasota County Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-8477.