Casey’s Law and The Good Samaritan Law
“The Good Samaritan Laws” of Kentucky
If you believe that someone is overdosing and would like to aid that person or you require assistance because you are overdosing, you will not be charged with possession of a controlled substance or drug paraphernalia. You should call 911 and wait with them until help arrives.
If you are assisting someone by administering naloxone, you cannot be held criminally or civilly liable for injuries; unless you are reckless while administering naloxone.
Casey’s Law
The Matthew Casey Wethington Act for Substance Abuse Intervention is names for Matthew Casey Wethington, who died in 2002 from a heroin overdose at the age of 23. Casey was an energetic young man who enjoyed life until it was “taken” by drugs. Casey never intended to become addicted to drugs when he used it the first time. What he did not realize was that his using would progress from abusing to dependence and then to the disease of addiction. Although his parents tried to get him help, there was no law that could force someone into treatment because he was an adult. After Casey’s death, his parents lobbied for a change. “Casey’s Law” is an involuntary treatment act for those who suffer from the disease of addiction.