Oro Grande, California – A woman from San Bernardino County has been arrested and charged with attempted murder after investigators say she secretly poisoned a former partner with fentanyl and oxycodone at his home in a remote Mojave Desert community.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to a residence in the 22200 block of National Trails Highway in Oro Grande on the morning of December 12, following a report of an alleged poisoning involving an older adult male.
Investigation Details
Sheriff’s officials said deputies arrived at the scene around 7:45 a.m. after the victim reported that he had been intentionally drugged weeks earlier. Investigators learned that the victim only became aware of the alleged poisoning during a recent argument with the suspect.
The woman was identified as Kristy Oliphant, 47, a resident of Oro Grande. Authorities confirmed that the victim and Oliphant had previously been in a romantic relationship.
During the investigation, deputies determined that the alleged poisoning occurred in October, several weeks before law enforcement was notified.
Alleged Use of Fentanyl and Oxycodone
In a statement released by the sheriff’s department, investigators said Oliphant allegedly went to the victim’s residence and administered fentanyl and oxycodone without his knowledge or consent.
“During the investigation, deputies learned the victim had been in a relationship with the suspect,” the sheriff’s release stated. “Oliphant went to his residence and administered fentanyl and oxycodone without his knowledge.”
Authorities did not release details about how the substances were administered or whether the victim required hospitalization at the time. The victim survived the incident.
Arrest and Charges
Following the investigation, deputies took Kristy Oliphant into custody. She was booked at the High Desert Detention Center on a charge of attempted murder.
Her bail was set at $1 million, according to jail records.
No court appearance date has been publicly announced as of the latest update, and it remains unclear whether Oliphant has retained legal representation.
Community and Public Safety Concerns
The case has drawn attention due to the alleged use of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid responsible for a sharp rise in overdose deaths across California and the United States.
Law enforcement officials continue to warn that fentanyl can be lethal even in extremely small amounts, particularly when used without a person’s knowledge. Authorities emphasize that intentional poisoning involving opioids is treated as a serious violent crime under California law.
Domestic-related incidents involving controlled substances often go unreported for extended periods, especially when victims do not immediately realize they were exposed, officials said.
Ongoing Investigation
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department stated that the investigation remains active. Detectives are working to determine whether there may be additional victims or further evidence related to the case.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have information about the incident to come forward.
How to Provide Information
Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Victor Valley Station at 760-552-6800 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at 760-956-5001.
Anonymous tips can be submitted through the WeTip Hotline at 800-78CRIME or online via the WeTip reporting system.
Case Summary
The arrest underscores the dangers posed by illicit opioids and the serious consequences tied to intentional poisoning cases. Sheriff’s officials say they will continue working to ensure accountability as the legal process moves forward.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to this story in the comments below.
