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Overdoses in L.A. jails are fueled by long waits for drug addiction treatment, staffers say
By Gavin J. Quinton at Los Angeles Times - California
· June 19, 2026
· 1 min read
Despite a push to expand medication-assisted treatment for drug addiction, wait times in L.A. County jails are leading to more overdose deaths, according to jail staffers and inmate advocates.
Key takeaway County jails are leading to more overdose deaths, according to jail staffers and inmate advocates.
Why this matters in The Los Angeles
The issue of lengthy wait times for medication-assisted treatment in L.A. County jails has significant implications for public safety and community health in Los Angeles . As the city struggles to address the ongoing opioid crisis, the failure to provide timely treatment to those incarcerated can have devastating consequences, including overdose deaths. This problem is particularly concerning given the city's efforts to expand access to drug addiction treatment, suggesting a disconnect between policy goals and implementation. The fact that jail staffers and inmate advocates are sounding the alarm about wait times underscores the need for local officials to reexamine their approach to providing medical care within the jail system. Los Angeles residents should be watching to see how the city responds to this criticism and whether it can find ways to reduce wait times and improve treatment outcomes for those struggling with addiction.
About this story
Original reporting by Los Angeles Times - California . The Los Angeles surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Los Angeles Times - California . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 19, 2026 ·
Source: Los Angeles Times - California ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Despite a push to expand medication-assisted treatment for drug addiction, wait times in L.A. County jails are leading to more overdose deaths, according to jail staffers and inmate advocates.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 19, 2026 by Los Angeles Times - California and curated for The Los Angeles readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Gavin J. Quinton at Los Angeles Times - California. To learn more about how The Los Angeles selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Los Angeles, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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