Overdose and poisoning deaths in Los Angeles County fell by 22% in 2024, marking the sharpest single-year decline ever recorded, according to public health officials. The drop—from 3,137 deaths in 2023 to 2,438—coincides with an aggressive campaign led by District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman targeting fentanyl and other controlled substances.
The decline includes a 37% reduction in fentanyl-related fatalities and a 20% drop in methamphetamine deaths, the first time fentanyl deaths have fallen below those linked to methamphetamine. Officials attribute the progress to coordinated efforts among law enforcement, educators and community advocates aimed at curbing drug distribution and raising public awareness, particularly ahead of Halloween.
“This isn’t someone else’s problem. The problem is all of ours,” Hochman said in a statement. “Seven out of every 10 illicit pills are laced with a lethal dose of fentanyl. Those odds put every person, every student and every family at risk. One pill can kill. Fentanyl doesn’t give second chances. It is an indiscriminate assassin killing on average eight people in our community every single day.”
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin, has been a leading cause of overdose deaths in the county. Since the start of 2024, the District Attorney’s Office has prosecuted 426 cases involving the possession, sale, transportation or distribution of controlled substances.
Recent convictions reflect a heightened focus on accountability. David Pearce was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder in connection with fatal overdoses in Beverly Hills, with sentencing scheduled for Oct. 29. Jestice James received an 18-year prison sentence after pleading no contest to child abuse charges in the deaths of her three-year-old twins. Casey Harding Linder was sentenced to 12 years for selling fentanyl and methamphetamine that led to a fatal overdose, setting a precedent for such charges.
Other cases have involved large-scale fentanyl seizures and charges against individuals accused of possessing and distributing the drug.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to save lives, disrupt the flow of deadly drugs into our communities, and hold those accountable who profit on the lives of others,” said Sheriff Robert G. Luna.
LA Police Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized the importance of collaboration: “Through partnership with the District Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement allies, we are working every day to disrupt the flow of this lethal drug and protect our communities.”
The District Attorney’s Office continues to prioritize education and prevention, stating that “awareness is the first step in saving a life.” Hochman reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing those responsible for distributing fentanyl and expanding outreach efforts across the county.
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