Attorney General Merrick Garland struggled to hold back tears on Friday while discussing the devastating impact of the fentanyl crisis on families across the United States. Speaking to those who have lost loved ones, Garland emphasized the profound grief that statistics cannot capture. He promised that the efforts to combat addiction and disrupt the fentanyl supply chain would never forget those who have passed away.

In 2023, more than 107, 000 lives were lost to drug overdoses in the U. S. , with 75, 000 of those deaths attributed to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Garland acknowledged that these numbers are staggering but fall short of expressing the true depth of the loss felt by families. He admired the strength of those who have chosen to speak out, describing them as carrying a legacy of compassion, love, and determination.

Garland took a moment to praise the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officials who are tirelessly working to end the overdose epidemic. Despite his term as the nation's attorney general coming to an end, he expressed his pride in their efforts and his own commitment to continuing the fight.

Fentanyl Crisis: AG Garland's Emotional Plea to End the Loss

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