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LaSalle County State’s Attorney Karen Donnelly estimates millions in future damages from opioids

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OTTAWA – LaSalle County State’s Attorney Karen Donnelly laid out the projected future potential reimbursement to the county from the scourge of opioid drugs.   She announced an update on the litigation her office has filed on behalf of the county for past and future damages caused by drug companies.  Donnelly claims over $21 million from 2003 to today, with another $38 million in the future up to the year 2040.

The estimates are based on the funds required for future and past Child Welfare & Adolescent Services, Drug Treatment Programs, Education & Prevention Programs, Health Care, Law Enforcement & Criminal Justice, and Lost Tax Revenue.

When asked about the liklihood of the county seeing any money from a settlement, she noted many of the large pharmaceutical companies are filing for bankruptcy protection.
“I remain hopeful and believe we will see something” Donnelly said Saturday, “And something is always better than nothing.”

Donnelly filed a lawsuit in 2019 against opioid manufacturers and distributors. The 320 page complaint alleges 13 counts against manufacturers and distributors including owners of Purdue Pharmaceutical.  LaSalle County alleges that Purdue engaged in deceptive marketing regarding the risks and benefits of prescription opioids, fueling the County’s epidemic and leading to the opioid overdose deaths of LaSalle County residents.

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