TULSA, Oklahoma. The Centers for Disease Control reports that in 2015 alone, there were 52,404 deaths due to drug overdoses in the U.S. This comes out to an estimated 144 drug overdoses each day. Slate reports that drug overdoses have become the leading cause of death in people under 50. Yet, even these numbers may not be accurately depicting the scope of the problem. Some districts and states may underreport opioid deaths by as much as 24%. While the Trump administration has yet to declare an emergency, the opioid crisis is a major problem affecting many cities and states in the U.S. Opinions on how to solve the problem differ. Most experts believe that money needs to be dedicated to treatment. President Trump and his administration are choosing, however, to address the problem through the use of the criminal justice system. According to Politico, Trump’s plan to address the problem involves increasing law enforcement efforts and securing the southern border.
Trump’s plan places law enforcement over treatment, despite expert advice that the government should focus its efforts on treatment. Already, the GOP proposals have included measures to repeal and replace Obamacare, which provided essential benefits for those struggling with opioid addiction.
So, if you are a person struggling with opioid addiction, what will Trump’s law and order stance mean for you? According to Rolling Stone, Jeff Sessions and Department of Justice plans to crack down on doctors and pharmacies who break the law. The Department of Justice will use new data tools to track pharmacies that are disbursing large quantities of painkillers. Doctors who are illegally prescribing opioids will also face criminal drug charges. Sessions plans to send federal prosecutors to cities that have been hardest hit by the drug crisis.
It seems that, at least for the time being, the Department of Justice is targeting doctors and pharmacies, and not individuals who are addicted to opioids. More cities are making naloxone more readily available. When used properly, the drug can reverse the effects of an overdose and potentially save lives.
What can you do if you find yourself facing a drug addiction problem or charges? First, it is important to seek help and treatment. Secondly, if you are facing drug charges, you need a drug crime lawyer fighting on your side to protect your rights. The Henson Law Firm, P.L.L.C. is a drug crime lawyer in Tulsa, Oklahoma who fights for justice for those who need help. Some are concerned that individuals who need help will face incarceration and jail time under the current administration. Fortunately, if you are facing criminal charges, you are innocent until proven guilty. The qualified criminal defense law firm of the Henson Law Firm, P.L.L.C. will take the time to understand your unique circumstances, needs, and concerns, and will fight for your freedom, your rights, and offer you the caring and compassionate legal assistance you need and deserve.
