Synthetic Drug Results in Recent R. I. Drug Deaths

A synthetic opiate which has been identified as acetyl fentanyl has been found in the bodies of several people who have died in Rhode Island in the past few months. Most of the people who died from the drug were intravenous drug users. As of June 14, 2013 14 people in the state have died after using the synthetic drug. The Rhode Island Department of Health in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a press release concerning the illegal drug, stating that it has properties which are similar to morphine. The drug is not a commercial drug, not approved by the FDA, and not prescribed by doctors.

Health experts warned that the risk of overdose is very real for anyone addicted to opiates. As regards the synthetic opiate, a Providence man has been arrested for possession of and trafficking the drug. He is accused of selling the drug as heroin but has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Rhode Island

A Rhode Island drug trafficking charge such as in the case above can lead to very serious consequences in a conviction. Depending on the type of drug involved, a drug trafficking charge or possession with the intent to deliver or manufacture may result in up to one, 20, or 30 years in prison with fines ranging from up to $10,000 for Schedule V drugs, up to $40,000 for Schedule III / IV drugs, and up to $100,000 for Schedule I / II drugs. Drugs are categorized into five schedules, based on their potency and addictive potential.

Retaining the legal services of a reliable criminal defense attorney is imperative if you are facing any type of drug charge. The Law Offices of Robert H. Humphrey represents clients throughout the state who are charged with crimes involving controlled substances, narcotics, and unauthorized prescription drugs. Mr. Humphrey is an experienced legal veteran, with 20 years in practice. He is a former prosecutor and bail commissioner who has helped countless clients with effective legal tactics aimed at helping them achieve the best possible case results. Contact his firm for a free case evaluation if you have been arrested or are facing a criminal investigation by law enforcement.