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.