L.A. County jails see deadly surge in inmate overdoses amid treatment delays

Inmate deaths in L.A. County jails rose sharply in 2025, with overdoses making up nearly a quarter of all cases. The risk of fatal overdose remains high for those released without proper treatment for drug addiction. Daejon Morgan died in his cell from a fentanyl and heroin overdose while waiting for medication-assisted treatment. His case highlights a broader issue: inmates in L.A. County jails often face long delays before receiving such care.

In December 2025, 835 inmates were on a waitlist for medication-assisted treatment. Budget limits frequently slow access, leaving many to endure withdrawal or relapse. The county had set aside $25 million for these programmes in the current fiscal year.

Despite an $8 million settlement earmarked for addiction treatment, the funds were redirected to other jail expenses. Inmates in 2025 were three times more likely to die in custody than in 2016. The county has allocated funding, but delays persist. Without timely access to treatment, inmates continue to face preventable health risks. Overdoses remain a leading cause of death in L.A. County jails.