Following the devastating loss of his 20-year-old daughter, Alexandra, to fentanyl poisoning in 2019, Matt Capelouto has become a relentless advocate for legislative change. He champions "Alexandra's Law," a bill designed to impose stricter penalties on fentanyl dealers whose actions result in fatalities. While California Democrats rejected the legislation in April, Capelouto remains steadfast in his mission to hold these "death dealers" responsible.

Capelouto emphasizes the importance of treating fentanyl overdose scenes as crime scenes, demanding immediate investigation as potential homicides. He stresses the need for robust laws to support law enforcement in pursuing criminal charges against those supplying the deadly drug.

Border Patrol make fentanyl bust in San Clemente, California. (U.S. Border Patrol)

Alexandra, a bright student on a full academic scholarship at Arizona State University, tragically overdosed during her winter break after taking a fentanyl-laced Oxycodone pill. Capelouto's tireless efforts aim to prevent other families from enduring similar heartbreak.

California father Matt Capelouto with his family. (Fox News)

Securing the support of California Attorney General Rob Bonta is crucial for the bill's success. Capelouto expressed disappointment that Bonta declined a meeting with fathers of fentanyl victims and hasn't endorsed legislation increasing penalties for drug dealers. He believes Bonta's support could significantly improve the bill's chances during the current legislative session.

Capelouto points to the broader issue of fentanyl originating from China and being distributed by Mexican cartels, highlighting the critical need to strengthen border security. However, he argues that addressing the domestic supply chain is equally vital. He emphasizes the low conviction rate of drug dealers in fatal overdose cases, asserting that this leniency allows them to operate with impunity, often becoming repeat offenders.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta speaks at a news conference at the Capitol in Sacramento, Calif., Feb. 23, 2022.  ((AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli, File))

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports over 200,000 deaths from synthetic opioids like fentanyl since 2020, underscoring the urgency of this crisis. A recent House Homeland Security Subcommittee hearing focused on combating the fentanyl influx into the United States and the role of cartels in this devastating epidemic.