This chapter explores the societal panic surrounding fentanyl, contrasting exaggerated media portrayals with the real dangers users face. It critically examines how law enforcement narratives and misinformation have influenced public policy, leading to harmful legislative changes. The discussion advocates for a shift toward data-driven, empathetic reporting to foster more effective harm reduction strategies.
In this public News Brief, we discuss a new, detailed media survey by Zach Siegel that shows how news outlets mindlessly parrot police "accidental fentanyl overdoes" misinformation.