Fentanyl is one of the most powerful synthetic opioids. It is a very potent pain-relieving medication that can also be dangerous when used without the supervision of licensed medical professionals. Some people intentionally seek out, manufacture and distribute fentanyl.
Other people living with a substance abuse disorder or involved in drug transactions might unknowingly transfer or sell a drug contaminated with fentanyl. In recent years, state and federal lawmakers have found fentanyl contaminating a variety of other illicit drugs distributed on the unregulated market.
How might a laboratory test showing the presence of fentanyl in another drug affect the charges associated with a defendant’s case?
Greater risk of adverse reactions
Fentanyl overdoses have become horrifyingly common in recent years. In 2022, there were 1,951 fentanyl overdoses just in Virginia.
Many of the people who died did not intentionally acquire fentanyl but instead consumed other drugs contaminated with fentanyl. Individuals accused of distributing drugs that caused a fatal overdose could face much more serious charges than other people accused of distribution-related offenses.
Harsher sentencing after a conviction
The courts are well aware of the harm caused by fentanyl, especially if drug users are unaware of when consuming illicit substances. Therefore, a person accused of distributing drugs contaminated by fentanyl could potentially face a more serious criminal sentence because of the potential harm that fentanyl can cause.
Anyone accused of a drug offense involving fentanyl or other dangerous synthetic opioids may need assistance assessing and responding to the state’s allegations. Even those who are unaware of the presence of fentanyl could face harsh consequences if the state determines that they – knowingly or unknowingly – distributed contaminated drugs to others.
