Can I Be Charged With Murder if Drugs I Sold Killed Someone?

 Posted on May 14, 2024 in Drug Crimes

In Illinois, there is an offense called drug-induced homicide. Although this crime has more in common with the offense of involuntary manslaughter, which is charged when the defendant did not mean to kill anyone, it is considered a form of murder. Drug-induced homicide is more serious than involuntary manslaughter. This law was introduced to combat the growing number of overdose deaths, most of which are caused by opiates like heroin, fentanyl, and prescription pain medications. Drug dealers, and even people who simply share drugs with people they know without charging them, can now be held accountable if someone fatally overdoses on the drugs they provide. If you are facing drug-induced homicide charges in Illinois, you must be represented by an experienced Rolling Meadows homicide attorney.

Understanding Drug-Induced Homicide Charges in Illinois

There are a few things the prosecution must prove in order to show that you are guilty of drug-induced homicide. Some of these elements might be harder to prove than others. Drug-related deaths can be complicated, and there are usually multiple factors involved.

The state would need to show that you are the one who supplied the drugs that caused the victim’s death. It does not matter whether you sold the drugs, gave them to the victim, or shared your own supply with the victim. The state must also show that it was specifically the drugs you provided that caused the victim’s death. It is clear that this is the case sometimes, like when the victim only used one substance from one source. However, if the victim was using multiple drugs and drinking alcohol, it might be harder for the state to prove that the drugs you provided to him or her were what caused his or her death.

The Good Samaritan Immunity Defense 

If you called 911 to seek help for the person who was overdosing, Illinois state law grants you immunity from prosecution for drug-induced homicide or other possession-related charges. This law was designed to prevent unnecessary drug-related deaths by encouraging anyone who witnesses a potentially fatal overdose to seek emergency assistance that might save the victim’s life. You may qualify for immunity under the Good Samaritan law even if your efforts to save the victim’s life by calling 911 did not succeed.

Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL Drug-Induced Homicide Attorney

Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law is committed to helping those who have been charged with drug-induced homicide and other drug-related offenses. Experienced Cook County, IL drug crimes attorney Scott Anderson has more than 25 years of experience. Contact us at 847-253-3400 for a complimentary consultation.