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Avelino Cuevas, a 23-year-old from Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, faces multiple charges in connection to a fatal overdose that occurred in East Pennsboro on the Fourth of July. Cuevas is accused of delivering cocaine to Julie Dreibelbis, who was found unresponsive at her home on West Shady Lane and later died from acute cocaine toxicity at UPMC West Shore on July 7.
The East Pennsboro Police Department responded to the scene on July 4 after receiving reports of a cardiac emergency. Upon investigation, police discovered that Dreibelbis had been purchasing cocaine from Cuevas regularly. According to LOCAL 21, her daughters confirmed that they frequently bought cocaine from Cuevas, known to them as "Avi," and that their mother had been injecting the drug multiple times daily.
Cuevas has been charged with drug delivery resulting in death, involuntary manslaughter, criminal use of a communication facility, and possession with intent to deliver, among other charges. East Pennsboro Township Police arrested Cuevas, and he was later bonded out of Dauphin County Prison. He is currently awaiting a preliminary hearing.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about drug-related deaths in the region. As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains vigilant in addressing the challenges posed by substance abuse. Anyone who needs to talk can call 800-273-8255 no matter the time of day.