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Drug charges: Concern voiced about drug problems in Tennessee

On behalf of Shults Law Office • January 19, 2017

A basic study of United States geography would likely include information regarding various industries and interesting facts regarding terrain or landmarks in each state. Some states, including Tennessee, however, have become known for things that would likely not be included in a typical tourist brochure. For instance, the state ranks among the top two in the nation regarding narcotic drug prescriptions. Many incidents where drug charges are filed involve the types of drugs often provided through such means.

One can assume that if inordinate numbers of prescriptions are being written and filled, chances are some of those taking the drugs are addicted to painkillers. In fact, one doctor recently suggested that Tennessee has one of the biggest synthetic opioid addiction problems in the nation.  Drugs most commonly associated with such addictions include percocet,  fentanyl and heroin.

Records show physicians in Tennessee and various other southern states write narcotics prescriptions at alarming rates compared to doctors in other parts of the nation.  The doctor that was interviewed said he is convinced this problem is a main causal factor to the serious drug abuse and misuse issues prevalent throughout the state. Interestingly, the number of deaths related to narcotics overdose between 2001 and 2010 increased 250 percent. 

Generally speaking, whenever there is a significant drug abuse problem in a particular area, drug crime rates in that same area tend to be high as well. Of course, just because a Tennessee doctor prescribes an opioid drug does not necessarily mean the doctor or patient committed any type of crime. Anyone facing drug charges related to prescription drugs can seek immediate assistance from a skilled defense attorney to discuss the best means for fighting such charges in court.

Source:  murfreesboropost.com, "Tennessee has a serious drug problem", Mark Kestner, Jan. 17, 2017

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