Florida officials announced the state continued to see a decline in opioid and drug-related deaths, making major strides in the fight against deadly drugs.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) announced the release of the 2025 Annual Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons Report by the Florida Medical Examiners Commission. The report reveals a significant decrease in statewide drug-related deaths and marks continued progress in Florida’s efforts to combat the opioid crisis.
Overall, from 2024 to 2025, total drug-related deaths decreased by 12%, with opioid-caused deaths dropping 33% and fentanyl-caused deaths down 37%. These results highlight a sustained downward trend in drug-related deaths, underscoring the state’s continued success in safeguarding the health and safety of its citizens.
The report found that fentanyl was the leading drug involved in deaths in 2025, followed by cocaine, which fell 16%, and methamphetamine, which fell 23% from the previous year.
“Florida continues to see record lows in opioid and drug-related deaths because we support our law enforcement and ensure they have the resources they need to do their jobs,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “Since February 2025, our office has secured a record increase in narcotic-related prison sentences, holding those who push these poisons into our communities fully accountable.”
“Our agents and partners are working every day to disrupt the flow of fentanyl and other deadly drugs into our communities,” said FDLE Commissioner Larry Keefe. “This progress is a direct result of their commitment and the Governor’s continued support for programs like S.A.F.E., which empower law enforcement to act quickly and effectively. We will keep using every lawful tool available to protect Florida families.”
Florida’s continued efforts to effectively investigate those who introduce dangerous drugs into communities has contributed to the state’s success in reducing drug-related deaths and fighting the opioid crisis. These efforts include enhanced drug interdiction by law enforcement across the state, initiatives like the State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (S.A.F.E.) grant program, and expanded access to life-saving medication, such as naloxone, for first responders. Since the S.A.F.E. program was established by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis in 2023, fentanyl-caused deaths in Florida have declined by nearly 60%, according to the report.
Review the 2025 Annual Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons Report by the Florida Medical Examiners Commission online.
Law enforcement agencies across the state remain committed to protecting the safety and health of local communities and encourage the public to report suspicious drug-related activity to local authorities.
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