Fentanyl Drug Deaths in Texas

Texas has unfortunately been at the forefront of the national opioid crisis, with fentanyl – an extremely potent synthetic opioid – causing thousands of deaths over the past few years. However, there is some good news. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recently reported a nearly 20% decrease in fentanyl-related poisoning deaths over the past year. This marks a hopeful turning point after years of increasing fatalities.

Said Governor Abbott:

Texas launched our comprehensive ‘One Pill Kills’ campaign in 2021 to raise awareness and educate Texans about the dangers of fentanyl, and we’re seeing a positive impact in the lives of Texans.

From directing state agencies to ramp up their anti-fentanyl efforts, to passing and signing critical laws to curb the fentanyl epidemic, to launching a multimedia campaign that garnered over 1.5 billion impressions, to partnering with college football coaches to raise awareness at high school football games, our statewide efforts have helped decrease fentanyl poisoning deaths of Texans this past year. And thanks to the people across our great state joining us in this fight and having open conversations with their loved ones about this deadly drug, we are saving lives. Texas will continue to combat this nationwide crisis to protect more innocent lives from being lost to the scourge of fentanyl.

The article continues:

DSHS’ data shows over 1,900 Texans died due to fentanyl poisoning from August 2023 to July 2024 compared to more than 2,360 in the previous 12 months. The decreases come after five straight years of increases, which saw fentanyl-related poisoning deaths in Texas rise over 600% from 2019 to 2023, taking the lives of more than 7,000 innocent Texans in just four years.

What is House Bill 6 (HB6)?

One of the most significant legislative measures in Texas aimed at addressing the fentanyl epidemic is House Bill 6. HB6 was signed into law in 2023 and classifies fentanyl overdoses as poisonings and increases the legal consequences for individuals involved in the distribution of fentanyl that results in death. Key provisions of HB6 include the following:

• HB6 allows prosecutors to charge individuals with murder if they sell or distribute fentanyl that results in a fatal overdose.
• The law increases the severity of penalties for fentanyl distribution, especially if it’s sold near schools or public spaces.
• HB6 targets drug traffickers and distributors. However, it also offers more leniency to individuals struggling with addiction, working to prioritize rehabilitation over incarceration.

This law reflects our state’s approach to addressing the crisis from a criminal justice perspective while acknowledging the importance of addiction treatment.

What are drug courts in Texas?

You may also have heard of Texas drug courts. These programs address the underlying issue of addiction, which is what often leads individuals to drug-related offenses. Drug courts offer an alternative to traditional criminal prosecution by focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Non-violent offenders with substance abuse problems may be eligible for diversion programs that involve counseling, drug testing, and regular court appearances. Successful completion of a drug court program can lead to reduced charges or lighter sentences.

If you’re facing charges related to fentanyl possession or distribution, participating in drug court can be a life-changing opportunity. Consult with a knowledgeable Killeen criminal defense attorney to explore this option and see if it’s right for you.

What are the consequences of selling fentanyl?

Selling or distributing fentanyl in Texas carries severe legal consequences, especially under HB6. If a person dies from a fentanyl overdose, the seller could face murder charges, which can result in life in prison. Even without a fatality, the penalties for fentanyl distribution are harsh. Distributing large quantities of fentanyl can result in first-degree felony charges, carrying a sentence of five to 99 years in prison.

How can I defend against fentanyl charges?

The skilled criminal defense attorneys at Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers can help you if you’re facing fentanyl-related charges:

• We can determine whether law enforcement conducted lawful searches and seizures.
• We’ll advocate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, like participation in a drug court program.
• We’ll also highlight your lack of intent to harm or involvement in addiction treatment.

It’s important to remember that while criminal penalties play a role in addressing the fentanyl crisis, acknowledging addiction is essential for long-term success. Many individuals involved in drug-related offenses are fighting substance abuse disorders and need access to treatment and support.

As Governor Abbott stated, communities across Texas are stepping up to battle the fentanyl epidemic. Educational campaigns, like “One Pill Kills,” inform the public about the dangers of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl. Schools, churches, and community organizations are all working together to raise awareness and provide support for families affected by this crisis.

Further, law enforcement agencies are now focusing on disrupting drug trafficking networks and preventing the spread of fentanyl in local communities.

The decrease in fentanyl-related deaths in Texas is a positive sign, but the fight against this deadly drug is far from over. HB6 represents a significant step in holding drug traffickers accountable, while drug courts and addiction treatment programs offer hope for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

If you or someone you know is facing fentanyl-related charges, it’s crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney in Killeen. The knowledgeable attorneys at Mary Beth Harrell Criminal Defense and DWI Lawyers can help you work through the criminal justice system, explore alternative sentencing options, and advocate for the best possible outcome. Get in touch with us today for a confidential consultation. Call us or fill out our contact form today.