Tarrant County DA Warns of Emerging Drug Threats as Fentanyl Deaths Reach 163 This Year

FORT WORTH, Texas - Tarrant County District Attorney Phil Sorrells is warning residents about changes in the illegal drug supply as fentanyl continues to drive overdose deaths and other substances emerge as growing concerns.

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office has reported 163 fentanyl overdose deaths so far this year, according to information released by Sorrells' office. Officials also reported 16 overdose deaths involving kratom and one involving cychlorphine, an emerging synthetic opioid.

The warning comes during Fentanyl Poisoning Awareness Month in Texas.

“The drug supply is more unpredictable than ever,” Sorrells said. “People may think they know what they are taking, but they don't. That mistake can cost them their life.”

Cychlorphine emerges in illegal drug supply

The DA's office described cychlorphine as a highly potent synthetic opioid that has begun appearing in the illicit drug supply.

Officials warned that the substance may be mixed with other drugs or used in counterfeit pills, creating a risk for people who may not know what they are consuming.

“Never take a pill that wasn't prescribed to you and filled by a licensed pharmacy,” Sorrells said. “You cannot look at a counterfeit pill and know what's in it. One pill can cost you your life.”

Tarrant County has recorded one overdose death involving cychlorphine this year, according to the DA's office.

Officials also raise concerns about kratom

Sorrells also warned residents about kratom, a substance derived from a plant native to Southeast Asia that traditionally has been consumed as a powder or tea.

Unlike illicit fentanyl, kratom products can be purchased legally online and at some smoke shops and convenience stores. The DA's office said concentrated or synthetic products can carry greater risks, with some concentrated versions sold in pill form.

Tarrant County has recorded 16 kratom overdose deaths so far this year, according to the information released by Sorrells.

“Legal doesn't mean safe,” Sorrells said. “Something sitting on a store shelf can give people a false sense of security. Know what you're putting into your body.”

The District Attorney's Office said it plans to continue working with law enforcement agencies and community organizations to educate residents about emerging substances while pursuing cases against drug traffickers.

“This is about saving lives,” Sorrells said. “The more people know about what's out there, the better chance we have of keeping another family from losing someone they love.”