FATAL DOSE

This specialized training course is designed for law enforcement professionals tasked with
responding to and investigating fentanyl-related incidents, including overdose deaths. As
fentanyl plays an increasingly significant role in the opioid crisis, officers must be well-versed in
the dangers of synthetic opioids and equipped with the skills necessary for conducting thorough
and effective investigations. Participants will explore the chemical properties and hazards of fentanyl, the complexities involved in processing overdose scenes, and the legal frameworks surrounding overdose fatalities. These cases are unique in that investigations often begin at the end—the overdose or death scene—and require working backward to trace the source of the drugs involved. The course will highlight investigative strategies for pursuing criminal charges against distributors and manufacturers. Additionally, the class will cover pharmaceutical diversion, examining common diversion methods and recent trends in the illegal distribution of prescription opioids, further enhancing officers ability to investigate and disrupt opioid trafficking networks.