CALIFORNIA – A San Diego man has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison after selling fentanyl that resulted in the deaths of two people just months apart in 2022, the U.S. Department of Justice announced on July 3, 2025.
Jonathan Tyler Gauthier, 26, pleaded guilty earlier this year to federal charges, admitting that he sold the fentanyl that led to the deaths of 24-year-old Sam Guest in September 2022 and 27-year-old Jesse White in December 2022.
Despite both fatal overdoses, Gauthier continued distributing fentanyl, prompting U.S. District Judge Janis L. Sammartino to call the case “one of the most tragic” she’s seen.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon condemned Gauthier’s actions, stating, “Even after two people lost their lives, the defendant kept pushing poison for profit.” The government’s sentencing memo emphasized Gauthier’s long history of drug crimes and his “clear disregard for human life.”
Gauthier’s 30-year sentence is meant to send a strong message, Gordon added: “If you deal fentanyl and show no regard for the deadly consequences, you will be held fully accountable.”
The court heard emotional tributes from the victims’ families. Sam Guest was remembered for his kindness, infectious smile, and joyful spirit. Jesse White’s family described him as a deeply loving man, passionate about college football, history, and his family. He died on Christmas Eve, having taken time off to spend the holidays with loved ones.
According to the California Attorney General, 3,946 Californians died from fentanyl overdoses in 2020—a number that continues to rise.
The case was investigated by the DEA’s Overdose Response Team and Fentanyl Abatement and Suppression Team (FAST).
