Ecstasy, also known as MDMA, is common in clubs or raves. Partygoers take ecstasy to induce feelings of euphoria, and they usually don’t take it alone. However, overdosing is always a risk when taking ecstasy; if a friend dies, you could face criminal penalties.
When sharing drugs leads to homicide
When someone dies due to drug usage, it is often their drug dealer who faces a felony charge. However, with overdose cases rising, law enforcement is going after anyone whose drug-related actions lead to someone’s death.
As a result, the authorities may arrest a family member or a friend if the drugs they shared caused their loved one to overdose. Even just one tablet of ecstasy can be fatal. If you shared drugs with someone who died as a result, you might face charges of involuntary manslaughter, homicide or murder.
Unfortunately, many overdose deaths happen because people are afraid that reporting the situation will lead to jail time. That is not always the case.
Reporting overdose doesn’t always mean jail time
Georgia’s 911 Medical Amnesty Law protects both the caller and the victim from facing arrest or criminal charges when they call 911 to report a drug overdose. Even if the person was also using drugs, underage or in possession of drugs, the law grants them immunity from prosecution.
The law was put in place to reduce overdose deaths and encourage those present during the overdose to seek medical assistance. Reporting an overdose early could allow the medical response team to administer the appropriate medication and reverse the overdose.
If you witness someone overdosing, do not hesitate to call 911. You still have a chance to save their life. However, if you did not contact 911 and are facing drug-related charges, it is best to find legal representation as soon as possible.