PROSECUTING DRUG
OVERDOSE CASES

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2018, there were 67,367 drug overdose deaths in the United States. A death that occurred due to a drug overdose, such as one from opioids, fentanyl, or heroin, is hardly a solitary incident. The ramifications not only affects the victim and their loved ones, but also extends to doctors, drug distribution companies, and dealers.

If you’ve been charged with homicide in connection with a drug overdose case, it is crucial to consult with a highly skilled and aggressive New York criminal defense attorney to build your defense strategy. I can provide the strong representation you need and help you understand your possible defenses. I will fight vigorously to protect your rights and help you seek fair treatment. Melanson Law Office proudly serves clients in Kingston, Hudson, Catskill, and Highland, New York.

Overview of the Opioid Problem in New York

In 2018, a total of 2,991 drug overdose deaths involving opioids occurred in New York. Opioids are drugs made up of chemicals that are often used to reduce pain or cause sedation. Common prescription opioid pain relievers include Fentanyl, Methadone, Hydrocodone (Vicodin), Oxymorphone (Opana), and Oxycodone (OxyContin). Heroin is also an opioid. However, it is illegal and highly addictive. When misused, opioid pain relievers can lead to fatal overdose, which often results in death.

Furthermore, 2,195 deaths involving synthetic opioids (mainly fentanyl and fentanyl analogs) were reported in 2018. In the same year, there were 998 and 1,243 deaths involving prescription opioids or heroin, respectively. As a way of combating the opioid problem, the State of New York commits an enormous amount of resources to fight the opioid pandemic, prosecuting, and punishing defendants in the state. The ramifications affect everyone, including the user’s friend, doctors, emergency personnel, drug distribution companies, and dealers.

Charges Against Drug Distribution Companies

Drug distribution companies may be facing charges for distributing drugs, which contributed to fueling the opioid pandemic. Both the executives of the drug distribution company as well as the distributor may be facing drug trafficking charges. Other charges may include violating the federal narcotics laws, unlawfully distributing prescription opioids, and conspiring to defraud the DEA, depending on the circumstances surrounding the case.

Charges Against Doctors

Doctors, clinic operators, nurses, and their staff may also be facing charges for conspiring to distribute prescription opioids or for prescribing opioids to whom they knew had no genuine need to use such highly-addictive drugs.

Charges Against Dealers/Providers of Drugs

Furthermore, The Office of the United States Attorney, in conjunction with the New York City Police Department, is planning to establish the Overdose Response Initiative. ORI will ensure that every overdose case is treated as a crime scene. The unit will also be responsible for holding drug traffickers, dealers, and providers of drugs liable for their part in the opioid pandemic. If convicted, defendants may be facing hefty fines, lengthy prison sentences, or both.

Get Help from A Criminal Defense Attorney

When a drug overdose death occurs, a lot of people are often blamed, including the drug dealer, user’s friend, relatives, physician, and the drug distribution company. Defending yourself in a drug-induced homicide case can increase your risks of getting maximum penalties. If convicted, you could be facing lengthy jail sentences, major fines, and a criminal record. Hiring an aggressive New York criminal defense attorney is important for proper guidance and to build your defense strategy.

I have dedicated my career to providing comprehensive legal services and strong representation to individuals involved in a drug-induced homicide case. I will review your case, conduct a thorough, independent investigation, and develop a defense strategy based on the circumstances surrounding your case.

Using my extensive knowledge, I can help you navigate the New York criminal justice system. I will fight vigorously on your behalf to help defend your rights and ensure that you receive fair treatment. With me on your side, you can anticipate a favorable outcome in your drug-induced homicide case.

Call Melanson Law Office today to schedule a one-on-one case evaluation with a knowledgeable New York criminal defense attorney. I will provide you with the strong representation you need, help strategize your defense, and keep your record clean. I’m proud to serve clients throughout the Hudson Valley, including Kingston, Poughkeepsie, Hudson, and Catskill, New York.