Whose Fault is a Drug-Induced Homicide in Florida?
Death caused by fentanyl can be first-degree murder
By Judy Malmon, J.D. | Last updated on January 19, 2023Use these links to jump to different sections:
As the number of drug overdose deaths continue to climb and affect public health, Americans are driven to hold someone accountable. One theory is to prosecute the provision of drugs leading to overdose as homicide cases. Prosecutions vary from state to state but, to date, 20 states currently have drug-induced homicide laws, and several more have such laws in the works. For having played a role in an overdose death, convictions can range from involuntary manslaughter to murder cases—with penalties ranging from two years to capital punishment. A recently passed law placed Florida at the most extreme end: A conviction of this type could get the death penalty. Often, the one charged with the crime is a drug dealer, but it could also be a partner, friend or drug user who co-used with the deceased. They may or may not have known what it was they were providing, as increasingly, heroin is laced fentanyl, a synthetic opioid variant many times stronger and more deadly.
Effect of “Good Samaritan” Law
One frequently cited concern with this type of law enforcement relates to the potential criminal charges one can face when seeking help for a companion who is overdosing. Florida’s “Good Samaritan” law provides immunity from prosecution for someone acting in good faith—one who seeks medical care and harm reduction on behalf of another whom they believe has overdosed. This law is intended to encourage those nearby to step in and seek medical help, but is limited in its protection. Good Samaritin laws provide immunity from prosecution for reporting a heroin overdose protects both the caller and the one who is overdosing from drug possession charges that would otherwise derive from the incident. However, one who seeks help can still be charged with other drug offences, including distribution and homicide. Obviously, any of these types of scenarios and resulting charges are not to be taken lightly. It’s imperative that you seek an experienced criminal defense legal counsel immediately if you or a loved one are faced with drug-related criminal prosecution. For more information on this area of law, see our overviews of criminal defense and drug and alcohol violations.What do I do next?
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