Arizona Implements Harsher Sentences for Fentanyl Dealers with the Ashley Dunn Act

Investigative Article: The Fentanyl Crisis in Arizona

In recent years, the United States has experienced a deadly opioid epidemic. Among the most potent of these drugs is fentanyl, which is contributing to a spike in overdose deaths across the country. Arizona, in particular, has seen a dramatic increase in fentanyl-related deaths, leading to a recent legislative action to increase prison sentences for those dealing the drug. In this investigative article, we will explore the causes and consequences of the fentanyl crisis in Arizona, as well as the implications of the Ashley Dunn Act.

The Rise of Fentanyl Use in Arizona and Beyond

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is often used as a prescription painkiller. It can be up to 100 times more potent than morphine and is often mixed with other drugs like heroin to increase their potency. Unfortunately, this also makes the drug particularly lethal for those who use it recreationally. In recent years, fentanyl has contributed to a spike in overdose deaths across the country, with Arizona being particularly hard hit. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, fentanyl was responsible for 579 overdose deaths in the state in 2020.

The Ashley Dunn Act and Increased Sentences for Fentanyl Dealers

The Ashley Dunn Act is a new law in Arizona that increases the minimum prison sentence for those convicted of dealing fentanyl. The law is named after a young woman who died of a fentanyl overdose in 2018. Under the new law, anyone caught selling even a small quantity of fentanyl will receive a mandatory four-year prison sentence. The law is intended to deter drug dealers from trafficking fentanyl, ultimately saving lives.

Comparison of Sentencing Guidelines Across States

The Ashley Dunn Act is a significant step towards addressing the fentanyl crisis in Arizona, but how do the state’s guidelines compare to those in other states? According to a report from the National Conference of State Legislatures, 34 states have mandatory minimums for drug offenses, but they vary widely in their severity. Some states, like Arizona, have opted to make fentanyl trafficking a top priority, while others have chosen to focus on other drugs.

Defenses for Those Accused of Dealing Fentanyl

While the Ashley Dunn Act is designed to target drug traffickers, there are some instances where individuals may be wrongly accused of fentanyl trafficking. In these cases, it is important to have a strong defense. Some potential defenses for those accused of fentanyl dealing include lack of awareness that the substance was fentanyl, entrapment by law enforcement, coercion or duress, and lack of intent to sell the drug.

Federal Defense Attorney Josh Kolsrud is Here to Help

If you or someone you know is facing accusations of fentanyl trafficking, it is essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. Federal defense attorney Josh Kolsrud has extensive experience defending drug trafficking cases and can help you build a strong defense. With his help, you can fight the charges against you and protect your future.

The Consequences of the Fentanyl Crisis in Arizona

The fentanyl crisis in Arizona has had severe consequences for the state and its people. Beyond the loss of life, the crisis has strained emergency response resources, increased medical costs, and put a significant burden on families and loved ones of those affected by the epidemic. The Ashley Dunn Act and increased sentencing guidelines for fentanyl dealers are critical steps towards addressing the crisis, but more can be done to prevent the spread of this deadly drug.

The Road Ahead: Solving the Fentanyl Crisis

While the Ashley Dunn Act and other measures like it are important steps towards addressing the fentanyl crisis in Arizona, more needs to be done to combat the spread of this deadly drug. This includes enacting measures to prevent diversion of prescription fentanyl, expanding access to effective treatments for addiction, and investing in public health campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of fentanyl use. By working together, we can put an end to the fentanyl crisis and save lives.

Fentanyl-Prison, Arizona

Share: