The scourge of opioid addiction across the country touches on all demographics. Among the middle class, those cut off from prescription OxyContin that hooked many in the first place turned to heroine as an alternative, fueling an epidemic of widespread addiction and, unfortunately, an increase in drug-related fatalities. More recently, users are sometimes unknowingly purchasing heroine laced with fentanyl, a powerful painkiller that is many times more potent than heroine and packs a fatal punch in small doses.
With the explosion of opioid drug-related deaths, Wisconsin prosecutors are becoming more aggressive about targeting drug-related homicides. They seek to punish those who sell an opiate that “causes the death of another person” to stem the increasing number of drug-related deaths. The counties that have been especially aggressive about filing charges include Waukesha, Fond du Lac and La Crosse. In 2013, county prosecutors in Wisconsin charged 71 people with first-degree reckless homicide by drug delivery - up from 47 the previous year. All convictions carry the possibility of up to 25 years in prison.
If you or a family member is facing charges of drug possession, distribution or even more serious drug-related charges, you will need a strong defense. The criminal defense Law Offices of Andrew C. Ladd LLC can assist you in making decisions in your defense that will protect your interests for the long term. With more than 50 years of combined experience and a shared commitment to providing clients with compassionate and knowledgeable service, we will walk you through every step of your defense, from beginning to end, as we fight to get you the best outcome possible. Contact us for help.
Sources: The New York Times, “Heroin Yields to an Even Deadlier Cousin: Fentanyl”, By KATHARINE Q. SEELYE, March 26, 2016.; “Chasing Heroine”, PBS. Org Frontline, February 23, 2016.
