For Immediate Release: October 20, 2026
Contact: Governor’s Press Office, (850) 717-9282, media@eog.myflorida.com
Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Nearly 60% Decline in Fentanyl-Caused Deaths in Florida Since 2023
ORLANDO, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that fentanyl-caused deaths in Florida have declined by nearly 60% since 2023, according to new data from the Florida Medical Examiners Commission’s 2025 Annual Drug Report. The significant decline comes as Florida continues to combat drug trafficking and support law enforcement through the State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (S.A.F.E.) grant program, established by the Governor in 2023.
“Fentanyl-caused deaths in Florida have declined by nearly 60% since we launched the S.A.F.E. grant program in 2023,” said Governor DeSantis. “So far, S.A.F.E. has resulted in almost 3,000 arrests of drug traffickers and dealers, as well as significant seizures of dangerous narcotics. We will continue supporting law enforcement and remain committed to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of Floridians.”
In 2023, fentanyl caused nearly 5,000 deaths in Florida. By 2025, that number had declined to approximately 2,000, representing nearly 3,000 fewer fentanyl-caused deaths annually. From 2024 to 2025 alone, fentanyl-caused deaths decreased by 37%, while deaths caused by fentanyl analogs declined by more than 50%.
The report also highlights significant statewide reductions in drug-related deaths from 2024 to 2025, including:
“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.”
Since its establishment in 2023, Florida’s S.A.F.E. grant program has provided funding to support large-scale drug investigations and help local law enforcement agencies dismantle trafficking organizations across the state.
To date, investigations supported by the S.A.F.E. program have resulted in:
Florida law enforcement agencies continue to conduct major operations targeting drug trafficking organizations and holding individuals accountable for distributing deadly drugs.
Recent operations include:
Operation Ice Breaker: In October, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, and statewide prosecutors announced charges against 25 individuals following a major drug trafficking investigation in South Florida. The operation resulted in the seizure of more than 100 pounds of cocaine, along with fentanyl, methamphetamine, and 16 firearms. Nineteen individuals had been arrested at the time of the announcement.
Operation End of Worlds: In September, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, FDLE, and Auburndale Police Department dismantled a major fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking organization using S.A.F.E. program resources. The investigation resulted in 39 arrests and the seizure of 4.5 pounds of fentanyl, along with additional drugs, firearms, and cash.
Operation Hall of Fame: In July, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and FDLE announced the results of an investigation into a major cocaine trafficking organization, resulting in nine arrests and the seizure of 60 kilograms of cocaine being transported from Texas into Florida.
Florida will continue supporting targeted drug trafficking investigations through the S.A.F.E. grant program and working with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to combat the distribution of fentanyl and other dangerous narcotics across the state.
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