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Attorney General makes announcement about Florida’s fentanyl crisis
Attorney General Ashley Moody makes an announcement regarding Florida’s fight to end the fentanyl crisis. Latest statistics shared.
ORLANDO, Fla. - Attorney General Ashley Moody held a press conference Thursday morning to provide updates on the Florida fentanyl crisis.
Moody shared that there has been a significant decline in opioid-related deaths in Florida, attributed to various efforts by law enforcement, policy changes, and community initiatives.
Key highlights include:
Statewide Progress:
- A 12% decrease in fentanyl-related deaths and a 10% decrease in total opioid-related deaths in 2023, equating to 777 fewer deaths statewide.
- Provisional CDC data shows a 17% decline in overdose-related deaths in Florida.
Regional Success:
- The Leesburg Medical District, including Lake, Hernando, Marion, Sumter, and Citrus counties, achieved a 40% decrease in overdose deaths, with 133 fewer deaths.
Law Enforcement Efforts:
- The SAFE (Safe Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication) grants provided $20 million to local law enforcement for overtime, equipment, and targeted operations against drug trafficking.
- Since late 2023, over 1,100 arrests have been made, and 290 pounds of fentanyl seized—enough to kill Florida's population three times over.
Focus on Addiction Treatment:
- Resources like TreatmentAtlas.org and DoseOfRealityFlorida.com help connect individuals to treatment options.
- First responders carry naloxone to reverse overdoses, with programs like "Helping Heroes" ensuring quick resupply.
Policy Initiatives:
- Proposed legislation targets transnational criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, aiming to classify fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction and criminal organizations as terrorist groups.
- Increased penalties and streamlined prosecutions for traffickers and gang members.
The Source: The information in this article came from a press conference held by State Attorney General Ashley Moody.
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