Florida reports nearly 60% decline in fentanyl-caused deaths since 2023
Orlando, Florida – Deaths caused by fentanyl in Florida fell from nearly 5,000 in 2023 to approximately 2,000 in 2025, according to newly released figures highlighted by Governor Ron DeSantis.
The nearly 60% decline, reported in the Florida Medical Examiners Commission’s 2025 Annual Drug Report, represents roughly 3,000 fewer deaths annually compared with 2023. From 2024 to 2025 alone, fentanyl-caused deaths dropped 37%, while deaths caused by fentanyl analogs decreased by more than 50%.
DeSantis announced the findings while emphasizing the state’s support for drug trafficking investigations through the State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication grant program, known as S.A.F.E. The program was established in 2023 to help law enforcement agencies conduct large-scale investigations and dismantle trafficking organizations.
“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.”
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The report also documented declines across several other categories of drug deaths. Between 2024 and 2025, total drug-related deaths fell 12%, while opioid-caused deaths decreased 33%. Deaths caused by cocaine declined 16%, and those caused by methamphetamine dropped 23%.
The administration highlighted those figures alongside enforcement results from S.A.F.E.-supported investigations. Since the program began, those investigations have produced nearly 3,000 arrests and led to the seizure of more than 600 pounds of fentanyl and over 65,000 fentanyl pills.
Authorities have also seized nearly 800 pounds of cocaine, nearly 2,600 pounds of marijuana and more than 520 pounds of methamphetamine through investigations supported by the program. Additional seizures include more than $6.6 million in cash, nearly 1,000 firearms and 90 vehicles.
“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.”
The governor’s announcement credited the program as part of Florida’s response to fentanyl trafficking. The figures presented describe both the decline in deaths and the results of enforcement activity, without separately quantifying the program’s contribution to the statewide decrease.
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Among the investigations highlighted was Operation Ice Breaker, a South Florida case involving the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration and statewide prosecutors.
In October, authorities announced charges against 25 people following that investigation. Nineteen had been arrested when the results were announced. Investigators seized more than 100 pounds of cocaine, along with fentanyl, methamphetamine and 16 firearms.
A separate investigation, Operation End of Worlds, targeted a fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking organization in September. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office, FDLE and Auburndale Police Department used S.A.F.E. resources during the operation, which resulted in 39 arrests.
Authorities seized 4.5 pounds of fentanyl in that case, as well as other drugs, firearms and cash.
The announcement also cited Operation Hall of Fame, a cocaine trafficking investigation whose results were released in July by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office and FDLE. That operation resulted in nine arrests and the seizure of 60 kilograms of cocaine being transported from Texas into Florida.
State officials said Florida will continue funding targeted trafficking investigations through S.A.F.E., with local, state and federal agencies working together to disrupt the distribution of fentanyl and other drugs.
