Companions are usually not liable if they call 911
Russell’s father – Tim – wants people to know that, if you are with someone who is overdosing, you can call 911 and be protected from prosecution. Those who may be complicit in illegal drug use might feel they would be compromising themselves if they called 911 to report an overdose situation. But usually – as long as the person isn’t found to be in possession of large amounts of drugs – the caller will be protected by the “good Samaritan law.” Russell’s father launched an information campaign after two men took his overdosing son to a remote location and abandoned him. Russell, at the age of 21, died by heroin overdose on January 10, 2016. The two men were at the time charged with involuntary manslaughter, concealment of a death, and obstruction of justice.
For more information:
Son’s overdose death inspires Schaumburg father to help educate others