Recent data indicates that while overall fentanyl overdose deaths are decreasing, there is a troubling rise in such deaths among teenagers. This article examines the current state of fentanyl overdoses, particularly focusing on the increase among teens and ongoing efforts to address this issue.

Fentanyl Cases in Arizona

Two significant fentanyl-related cases have recently come to light in Arizona:

• Case 1: An Arizona man was sentenced to 17 years in prison for selling fentanyl and evading law enforcement.
• Case 2: A Buckeye man pleaded guilty to involvement in a scheme that shipped 400 grams of fentanyl to Ohio.

National and State Trends

According to the CDC, drug overdose deaths are on a decline nationally. In Arizona, overdose deaths have decreased by more than 4% from the previous year. However, this trend does not extend to all age groups.

Increasing Fentanyl Deaths Among Teens

Despite a general decline in overdose deaths, fentanyl deaths are increasing among those aged 10-19. The most recent figures from the CDC, dating back to 2021, highlight this concerning trend.

Impact on Families

Matthew Bergman, an attorney with the Social Media Victims Law Center, represents many families affected by fentanyl poisoning. He notes that fentanyl impacts children and families across all races and socioeconomic statuses.

• Case Statistics: Bergman’s firm represents over 150 families who have lost children to fentanyl poisoning.
• Teenagers’ Vulnerability: Teenagers often make poor decisions, but these errors should not lead to fatal consequences. Bergman emphasises that many teens access fentanyl through social media platforms.

Case Study: The Plunk Family

One notable case involves the Plunk family from Mesa, Arizona, who lost their son Zach to a fentanyl overdose in 2020. Zach had used Snapchat to purchase what he thought was Percocet, but it turned out to be fentanyl.

• Family’s Discovery: Zach’s parents discovered his fentanyl usage by using his fingerprint to unlock his phone after his death.
• Legal Actions: Bergman is advocating for the Plunks and has made progress in their case. The court has allowed the case to proceed with discovery and questioning of company executives under oath.

Advocacy and Legal Efforts

Bergman and his team are working to crack down on teens’ access to drugs via social media. These efforts aim to hold social media companies accountable for enabling the sale of illegal drugs on their platforms.

The rise in fentanyl overdose deaths among teens is a pressing public health issue. While overall overdose deaths may be declining, targeted efforts are needed to address the unique vulnerabilities faced by young people in the digital age. Ongoing legal actions and advocacy work are crucial steps toward mitigating this crisis.

Source: AZFamily