More than 40 families from around Florida who lost loved ones to a fentanyl poisoning recently gathered with law enforcement partners and community stakeholders at Drug Enforcement Administration’s third annual DEA Florida Family Summit on Fentanyl at Westgate Lakes Resort & Spa in Orlando, to share their stories and raise awareness.
Fentanyl is the greatest drug challenge the United States has faced. Flooding the U.S. from Mexico, just two milligrams is enough to be lethal. DEA laboratory analysis has shown that approximately seven out of 10 fake pills may contain a deadly dose of fentanyl.
“Florida is leading the nation in fentanyl seizures in large part due to our aggressive, ingenious approach to drug interdiction and great coordination between our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies—and partnership with community groups and victims’ families,” said Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody. “However, every year, more and more mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters, grieve the loss of a loved one who died suddenly of a drug overdose. We must continue to stop illicit fentanyl from entering the country and connect those struggling with substance abuse with treatment to beat their addiction.”
That is why events like this DEA Central Florida fentanyl summit are so important. Law enforcement partners hear the heartfelt testimonials from those who have lost loved ones to fentanyl. The event also provides community resources to family members to help get them through this most difficult of times.
“Many of you want to be heard and share your stories,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “This is an opportunity to hear families speak of their journeys. We cannot do this alone, which is why we host these events. We can help save lives by working together.”
For nearly two hours, mothers and fathers who lost their sons and daughters and siblings to fentanyl poisonings stood up and through tearful eyes and shaky voices gave details into the passing of their loved ones.
Jaime Puerta, founder of Victims of Illicit Drugs, was one such voice.
“I lost my son Daniel in April 2020,” he said. “I absolutely adored him.”
Puerta’s son used a social media application to connect with a drug dealer to buy what he thought was a 30 mg oxycodone pill. It turned out to be a fake pill containing fentanyl.
“I walked into my son’s room on April 1, 2020, and saw what no parent should ever see … the trauma inflicted on my family has been horrendous.”
Puerta’s son took half a pill. Upon his death, the other half was analyzed and it contained enough fentanyl to kill four adults.
“There’s no such thing as recreational drugs,” he said. “Those days are over.”
“I feel a connection and empathize with the family members we have here,” said Reuter. “Hearing their stories and seeing the way these drug poisonings have impacted them really motivates me. How could it not?”
Every drug can be laced with fentanyl. Even vape pens have been known to contain it. It’s a battle DEA and other law enforcement partners say they will continue to fight vigorously.
In addition to the DEA Central Florida fentanyl summit, check for more information about DEA’s Family Summits. Check Get Smart About Drugs, Campus Drug Prevention, and One Pill Can Kill for help in speaking to kids about the dangers of drug use. For assistance with substance use or mental health disorders, visit DEA’s Recovery Resources page for a list of resources.
