Apollo Beach, FL — A Florida man has been convicted in a federal case involving a fatal fentanyl overdose that led to a woman’s drowning, authorities said.
Guilty Verdict in Federal Court
Ludwin Borgen, 49, was found guilty by a federal jury of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.
He now faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years and could receive life in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16.
Drug Sale Led to Fatal Incident
Prosecutors said Borgen, identified as a drug dealer in the Tampa Bay area, supplied fentanyl to the victim multiple times. On March 29, 2022, the victim arranged to purchase fentanyl from him and met him at a pharmacy.
Later that night, authorities say she injected the drug while in a bathtub. While under the influence, she lost consciousness, slipped underwater, and drowned.
Discovery and Evidence
A friend discovered the victim after noticing she had been in the bathroom for an extended period. Officials reported finding:
- The victim submerged in the tub
- A syringe floating in the water
Toxicology results revealed the victim had fentanyl levels approximately 10 times higher than therapeutic amounts, consistent with an overdose.
Investigation and Arrest
Investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, along with local agencies, identified Borgen as the supplier.
At the time of his arrest, authorities found:
- Fentanyl
- Packaging materials
- Syringes
- A scale
Multi-Agency Effort
The case involved coordination between:
- The FBI
- Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
- Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office
- Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Ongoing Fight Against Fentanyl
Federal prosecutors emphasized that cases like this highlight the deadly risks associated with fentanyl and the legal consequences for those involved in its distribution.
Borgen remains in custody awaiting sentencing.