North Carolina — Davidson County ranks fifth in North Carolina for death by distribution charges, leading seven counties in the Mid Carolina region, according to a January 2026 report examining how prosecutors across the state have used the law.
The report, published by the Fentanyl Victims Network of North Carolina, tracks charges filed since December 2019 and highlights significant differences in how frequently counties pursue criminal charges following fatal drug overdoses.
Davidson County recorded 16 charges, placing fifth among North Carolina’s 100 counties.
Cabarrus and Iredell counties tied for 11th statewide, with seven charges each. Randolph County ranked 15th with six charges, while Rowan and Davie counties tied for 17th with five each.
Forsyth County ranked 40th, with two reported charges, the lowest total among the seven counties examined.
Together, the seven counties accounted for 48 reported death by distribution charges.
What Is Death by Distribution?
North Carolina’s death by distribution law allows prosecutors to pursue felony charges against people whose unlawful distribution of certain controlled substances results in another person’s death.
The law, which took effect in December 2019, was intended to hold drug suppliers criminally responsible when their actions lead to fatal overdoses.
Prosecutors must establish a connection between the drugs distributed and the resulting death. The law provides different levels of criminal liability depending on the circumstances of the case.
Significant Differences Across Counties
The regional figures reflect a broader statewide pattern in how prosecutors have applied the law.
Davidson County reported more than three times as many charges as Rowan or Davie counties and eight times as many as Forsyth County.
The differences do not necessarily indicate higher overdose death rates in counties with more prosecutions. Investigative resources, available evidence and decisions by prosecutors all influence whether charges are filed.
A Duke University-affiliated study published in January 2026 examined 557 death by distribution charges filed statewide between 2013 and 2024, including charges under earlier versions of the law. Researchers found substantial differences in how frequently counties pursued these cases.
The study also identified a weak relationship between overdose deaths and the number of death by distribution charges filed.
Charges Do Not Reflect Convictions
The figures represent criminal charges, not convictions. A charge does not establish guilt, and some cases may ultimately be dismissed or result in acquittals.
The January 2026 report includes cumulative figures dating to December 2019 rather than charges filed exclusively during the past five years.
The findings highlight differences in the use of North Carolina’s death by distribution law across the region, with Davidson County among the state’s highest-ranking counties and Forsyth County reporting comparatively few charges.
Source: Fentanyl Victims Network of North Carolina, January 2026 prosecution report.
