Mon Sep 23 17:42:27 UTC 2024: ## Two Men Plead Guilty in Death of Transgender Activist Cecilia Gentili

**NEW YORK** – Two men have admitted to providing the fentanyl-laced heroin that led to the death of prominent transgender activist Cecilia Gentili earlier this year. Michael Kuilan, 44, and Antonio Venti, 52, pleaded guilty to federal drug charges in separate court appearances.

Prosecutors say text messages, cell site data, and evidence found at Kuilan’s residence – including hundreds of small bags of fentanyl, a handgun, and ammunition – confirmed that Kuilan supplied Venti with drugs that he then sold to Gentili.

Gentili, a former sex worker who became a prominent advocate for transgender rights, sex workers, and people with HIV, was found dead in her bedroom on February 6th. Her death was attributed to a combination of fentanyl, heroin, xylazine, and cocaine.

While the guilty pleas cannot bring Gentili back, federal officials say they send a clear message that those responsible for drug-related deaths will face consequences. “While these guilty pleas can’t undo the tragic loss of transgender rights activist Cecelia Gentili, it sends a message that we will do everything we can to make sure those responsible for drug related deaths face the consequences for their actions, and the families of those who lost their lives receive justice,” said Frank Tarentino, special agent in charge of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration’s New York office.

Gentili’s funeral at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Manhattan sparked controversy within the Catholic community due to her past as a sex worker.

Kuilan is scheduled to be sentenced in January, while Venti’s sentencing is set for next month.

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