Across our state and nation, prescription and illicit opioids are fueling an overdose epidemic. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, opioids were involved in 33,091 deaths in 2015. In Rhode Island, 336 individuals died from drug overdoses last year.

We are confronted with the devastation and profound loss of opioid abuse, addiction and overdoses. We see the families torn apart after the overdose death of a loved one and those struggling with their addiction. As we consider the scope and magnitude of the crisis, it's critical to note that this epidemic did not begin in a vacuum. Accordingly, we must look at the supply chain – starting with the manufacturers and distributors to better address the problem.

To that end, last week I announced that my office, as part of a bi-partisan effort of 41 attorneys general, has sent civil investigate demands seeking documents and information from manufacturers and distributors of prescription opioids as part of a multi-state investigation into the nationwide opioid epidemic. This information will enable our office to evaluate whether manufacturers and distributors engaged in unlawful practices in the marketing, sale, and distribution of opioids.

We need to know if and to what level the manufacturers and distributors are responsible for this epidemic that perpetuated such needless loss of life.

With Rhode Island having one of the highest rates of drug-related overdose deaths per capita in the country, I requested to serve on the executive committee of this multi-state investigation, giving the state and those impacted by the opioid epidemic a leading voice in this investigation and determination of culpability by manufacturers and distributors.

In this investigation, we will seek all evidence and information in our pursuit of the truth-to determine whether the law was violated and whether drug manufacturers or distributors are culpable. If they are culpable, we will not hesitate to bring all our resources to hold them accountable.

It is my sincere belief that to truly address substance use disorders and the overdose epidemic that is shattering the lives of families across our state, we must employ a comprehensive legal and public health strategy that includes criminal and civil consequences for those who peddle these drugs knowing the lethal consequences, educating the public on the dangers of substance use, and to provide the necessary services and treatment for those suffering from this disease.

As this investigation unfolds, I will do my best to keep you informed of its status and the steps we take should we determine fault with the opioid manufacturers and distributors. Sincerely,

Peter F. Kilmartin