Recent Criminal Conviction Histories in Overdose Fatalities in New Mexico

• In Event: Posters I

Abstract

Background: Prescription and illicit opioid-related fatalities are at all-time highs nationwide. An association between criminal convictions and overdose fatalities may help to identify those at risk.

Methods: We performed a retrospective study of NM overdose fatalities in 2014. Cases were included if the primary cause of death was an overdose. Decedent’s criminal conviction records were obtained from January 1, 2013 to time of death.

Results: We identified 518 overdose fatalities during 2014. Opioids represented 74% of cases (227 prescription, 116 heroin, 38 both). Heroin fatalities were younger than non-opioid fatalities (42.8 v. 47.2; p=.001). At least one criminal conviction was reported in 112 overdose fatalities (22%), corresponding to 179 discrete court cases. Men with an overdose fatality were more likely to have convictions than women (35% v. 17%; p=.03). Overdose fatalities with a conviction were younger than those without a conviction (37.4 v. 45.7 years; p<.001). There was no difference in convictions among race groups (p=.45). Heroin-caused deaths were more common among overdose fatalities with a conviction, compared to those without a conviction (84% v. 71%;p=.007).

Conclusion: A criminal conviction history may be useful in predicting risk for overdose-related fatality.

Authors

• Brandon Warrick, New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center

• Linda Freeman, University of New Mexico

• James Davis, New Mexico Department of Health

• Orrin Myers, University of New Mexico Clinical & Translational Science Center (CTSC)

• Steven Seifert, New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center

• Sarah Lathrop, New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator

• Susan Smolinske, New Mexico Poison and Drug Information Center