North Carolina Judge Dies From Fentanyl, Heroin Overdose: Autopsy

Stock image of Bags of heroin, some laced with fentanyl. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

A medical examiner has determined that Guilford County Judge Tom Jarrell died from an opioid-related overdose, according to High Point Police Department media release (pdf).

Jarrell died at age 56 on Aug. 3.

Law enforcement found the judge unresponsive on the bathroom floor, a powdered substance in a plastic bag was in his pocket, more of the powdered substance was found on a piece of paper, as well as, a pocket knife, Rhino Times, a local outlet, reported.

The autopsy reportedly stated that the substance was fentanyl and heroin, and that there was a possible needle puncture in Jarrell’s right arm.

One attorney expressed his surprise over the sudden news of Jarrell’s death.

“I’ve never heard anything that he was sitting on the bench being in any state other than being alert and being aware of what he was doing,” attorney David Freeman said, WFMY reported.

“He was a great man and an excellent judge and he had a problem apparently,” Freedman said. “But people should not let that overshadow the work that he’s done for the community over the years.”

Cindy Jarrell, the judge’s wife, gave WFMY a statement:

“Our family is still reeling from Tom’s sudden death. It has left a huge void in all our lives and in the community he loved. We have not had an opportunity to review the autopsy, but nothing it can tell us will bring him back or alter our deep love and affection for him.”

The High Point Police Department released a statement of their own.

“With the medical examiner’s confirmation today that Judge Tom Jarrell died from an opioid-related overdose, the High Point Police Department remains committed to working with our law enforcement, health and service partners to address opioid abuse through enforcement, prevention and treatment efforts.  From January 1 to October 9, 2019, the High Point Police Department has responded to 209 overdose calls and there have been 18 deaths.  Today’s news is another reminder that there is a lot of work left to do on this societal issue.”

Fentanyl, China, and The American Chemical War

Thousands of Americans are being poisoned to death every year by a powerful drug being illegally sent into the country. Potent and inexpensive Fentanyl has taken more and more American lives year after year, and the biggest source is now clear: China.

However, it’s not the case that there are simply a few criminals hiding in the shadows producing this drug for profits. Rather, it may be the Chinese leadership itself condoning Fentanyl production and export to the United States, as experts have described China’s actions as a form of chemical warfare.

Now, the United States is taking a stand.

Epoch Times reporter Daniel Holl contributed to this report.