Fentanyl deaths are a major concern in Florida, but recent data suggests progress is being made. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody reports that while fentanyl deaths are decreasing, the battle against the opioid crisis is ongoing, with thousands still affected.

Positive Trends In Fentanyl Deaths

During a news conference in Tampa, Attorney General Moody discussed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Medical Examiners Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons 2023 Interim Report. The report shows a significant decrease in fentanyl deaths from January to June 2023, marking the largest drop since 2016. This is the third consecutive report to show reductions in drug-related, opioid-caused, and fentanyl-caused deaths, which decreased by 7%, 10%, and 10% respectively.

Moody shared her cautious optimism, stating, "I am proud to say that in our fight, Florida is getting it right. We lead the nation in fentanyl seizures." Additionally, Tampa Bay improved its ranking from fourth to sixth in fentanyl deaths in the state.

Ongoing Threat Of Fentanyl

Despite these encouraging statistics, fentanyl remains the leading cause of drug-related deaths in Florida. FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass reported that in the first half of 2023, over 7,000 Floridians died from drug overdoses, with fentanyl accounting for 2,500 of those deaths. Glass emphasized, "Twenty-five hundred deaths in six months, just to fentanyl alone. That's a staggering stat."

Attorney General Moody highlighted the danger of fentanyl-laced drugs, noting that seven out of ten pills seized by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) contained lethal doses of fentanyl. "Whatever drug you think you’re taking is likely laced with fentanyl," she warned.

Efforts By Law Enforcement And The Community

Moody commended law enforcement's relentless efforts to remove opioids from the streets. Commissioner Glass detailed recent operations resulting in significant seizures of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamines, and firearms. "This is just the start," he affirmed, underscoring the ongoing commitment to combating drug trafficking.

However, Moody emphasized that community involvement is also crucial. She urged the public to help those struggling with addiction and to use resources like treatmentatlas.org. "You're listening to the information that we're giving you about the danger of using illicit drugs. You're talking to your family members that you know have a problem; you're helping them get help," she said.