Weekly Briefing from Florida’s Attorney General Pam Bondi …………………..

This week, I filed legal action against some of the largest opioid manufacturers and distributors in our nation for their role in the national opioid crisis claiming lives in our state.

Nationally, an estimated 175 people overdose and die every day after taking an opioid. In Florida, 15 people a day are dying from opioid abuse. If we continue on this tragic path, it is hard to imagine a Florida family that will not be impacted by this crisis.

Our suit seeks damages for the pain and suffering caused by the deceptive practices of major manufacturers and distributors. The complaint also seeks to stop the defendants conduct so a crisis like this will never harm Florida again. While we cannot put a monetary value on the loss of life, or the amount of grief this crisis has caused thousands of Florida families, we can ask these companies to do the right thing.

As a former state prosecutor and Florida’s Attorney General, I have spent my entire career fighting drug abuse to try and save lives. This crisis is the worst I have ever seen and it spans far beyond Florida. While our litigation is focused on the damages to Florida and our state’s interests, these defendants’ role in this crisis has caused pain and suffering throughout our country.

From my first day as a Hillsborough County prosecutor more than 20 years ago, till my last day as your Attorney General, I have done and will do everything I can to ensure justice is served and the innocent are protected.

Editorial: Bondi holds drug industry accountable for Florida opioid crisis, Tampa Bay TimesFlorida AG Pam Bondi suing drug companies, WFLA

AG Bondi says Florida Suing Opioid Manufacturers, Distributors, Bay News 9

AG Bondi files suit against opiate drug-makers, Fox 13 Tampa

Florida files ‘comprehensive’ lawsuit against opioid manufacturers, distributors, WTSP

U.S. state lawsuits against Purdue Pharma over opioid epidemic mount, Reuters

AG Pam Bondi: Israel is our greatest ally in the world, FOX News

Orlando Police Lieutenant Scott Smith Receives Officer Of The Year Award, WFSU

Airport restaurant was faking farm-to-table fare, state says, Miami Local 10 News

Attorney General Bondi Announces the 2017 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

Attorney General Pam Bondi named Orlando Police Department Lieutenant Scott Smith as the 2017 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Attorney General Bondi recognized Lieutenant Smith and seven other officers from across the state for their dedication and courage protecting Floridians.

“Florida has some of the best and bravest law enforcement officers in the world, and I am honored to be able to recognize these heroes through our annual law enforcement awards,” said Attorney General Bondi. “We cannot thank these officers enough for the sacrifices they and their families make daily to protect our communities and keep us safe.”On June 12, 2016, Lieutenant Scott Smith was one of the Watch Commanders during the Pulse nightclub attack in Orlando. This incident would become the second deadliest mass shooting in our country’s history. Lieutenant Smith organized and led a team into the nightclub. Lieutenant Smith shot at the suspect inside the building, allowing responding officers to rescue patrons and employees still inside the club. 

Lieutenant Smith played a critical role during the law enforcement response to the Pulse nightclub attack. He commanded the initial tactical response as a first responder. He led officers into the building, confronting the active shooter with return fire, limiting the shooter’s access to further victims. SWAT team members, including Lieutenant Smith, returned fire, killing the suspect. During a dangerous situation, Lieutenant Smith displayed commendable acts of valor and heroism. More.

Attorney General Pam Bondi alongside officers from across the state being honored for their dedication and courage to protect Florida.

Attorney General Bondi honoring Lieutenant Scott Smith with the 2017 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year for his bravery during the Pulse Night Club shooting.

Attorney General Bondi recognizing Detective Jeff Batz for his dedication working for the Florida Department of Financial Services.

Attorney General Bondi distinguishing Officer Schiefer S. Buckles for his outstanding commitment to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Office of Agriculture Law Enforcement.

Attorney General Bondi honoring Special Agent Don Cannon for his work targeting human trafficking, making Florida a safer place.

Attorney General Bondi recognizing Detective Wolfgang Daniel, Fort Myers Police Department for his courageous efforts dismantling gangs in Fort Myers.

Attorney General Bondi awarding Deputy Justin Ferrari for his bravery during a domestic incident involving active gunfire.

Attorney General Bondi honoring Detective Sandra Marquez for her skill and expertise in the Economic Crimes Unit.

Attorney General Bondi recognizing Corporal Julio Torres for his heroic efforts extracting an unconscious occupant from an overturned car in a canal on I-75.

Attorney General Bondi speaking at the Council 100 about her steadfast commitment to holding drug manufacturers and distributors responsible for their role in the national opioid crisis.

Attorney General Bondi speaking with Fox & Friends anchor Abby Huntsman about holding major opioid manufacturers and distributors accountable for their role in the national opioid crisis.

Attorney General Bondi attended the funeral of Highlands County Deputy William Gentry along with Governor Rick Scott, Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, and Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis. Deputy Gentry was shot and killed in the line of duty. He leaves behind a wonderful family. Please keep them and his law enforcement family in your prayers.

Attorney General Bondi celebrating Peace Officers Memorial Day. On Peace Officer Memorial Day, we honor our brave law enforcement officers who have lost their lives or suffered disabling injuries.

Attorney General Bondi will recognize Armed Forces Day Saturday. Attorney General Bondi thanks the men and women who serve the United States’ Armed Forces.