The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs (OBNDD) has unveiled its 2024 Drug Threat Assessment, revealing a troubling rise in fentanyl and methamphetamine overdoses, a growing presence of cocaine, and heightened cartel activity.
The state now faces a complex poly-drug crisis, exacerbated by violent crime, increased youth marijuana exposure, and organized criminal networks.
Overdose Surge: Fentanyl and Meth Still Lead
According to OBNDD Director Donnie Anderson, Oklahoma is grappling with an increase in fatal overdoses, driven largely by synthetic opioids and meth:
- 1,375 overdose deaths in 2023
- 816 linked to methamphetamine
- 747 linked to fentanyl
- 259 from prescription drugs
- 146 from other opioids
Non-fatal overdoses reached 1,789, emphasizing the widespread and escalating danger.
Cocaine Comeback and the Poly-Drug Crisis
While fentanyl and meth remain dominant, Oklahoma is now seeing a spike in cocaine trafficking and usage. Seizures of powdered and crack cocaine are increasing, reflecting global supply trends. Cocaine-related fatalities are climbing for the first time in a decade, signaling a deadly mix of substances being used together—often unknowingly.
“We are also seeing alarming increases in cocaine importation, use, and overdoses in Oklahoma,” said Anderson.
The report confirms that powerful Mexican Drug Trafficking Organizations (DTOs) are deeply embedded in Oklahoma, utilizing its vast highway system to distribute drugs nationwide. These groups are primarily responsible for moving large quantities of meth, fentanyl, and cocaine, contributing to an alarming rise in drug-related crime.
Marijuana Misuse and Youth Exposure
OBNDD also highlights growing misuse within Oklahoma’s medical marijuana program. Legal growers are diverting products to the black market, while child exposure incidents have surged:
- A 1,900% rise in cases involving children under five since legalization
- Increase in high-potency edibles and THC products
Law enforcement reports an uptick in juvenile marijuana use, attributing it to inadequate THC regulation and accessibility.
Drug-Related Criminal Enterprises
The assessment ties narcotics trafficking to organized crime, including:
- Sex trafficking of undocumented Asian women
- Human smuggling linked to illegal brothels
- Money laundering via underground casinos
- Illegal gambling at establishments like karaoke bars
Criminal groups operating in Oklahoma include Mexican cartels, Italian and Irish mobs, Fujianese traffickers, and local gangs.
Strategic Enforcement and Community Outreach
The OBNDD uses this assessment to inform enforcement priorities and strategically allocate resources—whether to disrupt cartel routes, assist rural law enforcement, or educate the public. Director Anderson emphasized the importance of data-driven action and community involvement.
“We’re committed to confronting them with every resource we have,” he said.
Oklahoma’s drug crisis has evolved into a multi-substance epidemic. With fentanyl, meth, and cocaine leading the charge, and marijuana misuse rising, public awareness, prevention, and intelligence-led law enforcement are critical. The state’s role as a central distribution hub underscores the urgency of swift and coordinated action.