Devendra Kumar
A 20-year-old woman, Sofia Haley Marks, has been arrested on federal narcotics charges in connection with the death of Robert De Niro’s 19-year-old grandson, Leandro De Niro Rodriguez. According to a law enforcement official who spoke on the condition of anonymity, Marks was arrested by New York City police officers and federal drug agents on Thursday. The charges stem from the alleged sale of drugs to Rodriguez, which ultimately led to his death on July 2.
Rodriguez was found dead in his Manhattan apartment, and his cause of death is currently under investigation by the city medical examiner’s office. His mother, Drena De Niro, announced her son’s death on Instagram, stating that he died after someone sold him fentanyl-laced pills. Rodriguez’s father is artist Carlos Mare, and he was an actor in his own right, having appeared alongside his mother in projects including the 2018 remake of A Star Is Born.
In the aftermath of his death, Robert De Niro issued a statement expressing his devastation at the loss of his grandson. A representative for De Niro did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment on the arrest. Marks is expected to appear in federal court later on Friday, although online booking records for her arrest were unavailable, and it was unclear if she had retained a lawyer to speak on her behalf.
Marks’ alleged sale of drugs to Rodriguez is believed to have played a significant role in his death, which has left the family and loved ones reeling. As the investigation into Rodriguez’s death continues, authorities are working to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. The arrest of Marks is the latest development in the case, and officials will be closely monitoring her case as it moves forward.