A landmark lawsuit against Snapchat alleging the social media platform facilitated fentanyl overdoses will proceed, a judge has ruled. The case, which has garnered national attention, centers around allegations that the drugs were obtained through the app.
“I teared up,” said Sam Chapman of Manhattan Beach, California. “It’s a little justice for [Sammy].” Chapman’s son, Sammy, tragically passed away at the age of 16 after purchasing a fentanyl-laced pill from a dealer he connected with on Snapchat.
Earlier this year, a judge denied Snapchat’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit, which was filed by dozens of families who have lost loved ones to suspected fentanyl overdoses. The recent appeals court ruling has reignited hope for Sam Chapman and other families seeking accountability from the social media giant.
“They will sort of under oath,have to tell the truth about what they’ve been doing to addicting our children to these platforms and what they’ve been doing to let drug dealers on the platform,” Chapman stated,expressing his belief that the legal proceedings will shed light on Snapchat’s alleged role in the fentanyl crisis.
The lawsuit, initially filed in 2022, drew more than 60 families who shared similar stories of loss. Snapchat maintains its innocence, arguing that the First Amendment protects the messages exchanged on its platform and that federal laws shield it from product liability lawsuits.
“That law was put in place in 1996.Before there were algorithms and artificial intelligence and all of the things that are using our children’s data to drive dangerous,adult-oriented things their way,” Chapman countered,challenging Snapchat’s defense in light of the platform’s evolving nature.
FOX 11 reached out to Snap Inc. for comment but did not receive a response at the time of publication.
Families Fighting for Justice: Landmark Snapchat Lawsuit Moves Forward in Fentanyl Crisis
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A groundbreaking lawsuit against social media giant Snapchat, accusing the platform of facilitating fentanyl overdoses, has received a crucial victory. A judge’s decision to allow the case to proceed brings renewed hope to families who have tragically lost loved ones to the growing opioid epidemic.The lawsuit, which has garnered widespread attention, alleges that the dangerous drugs were obtained through connections made on Snapchat.
Sam Chapman of Manhattan Beach, California, who lost his 16-year-old son Sammy to a fentanyl-laced pill purchased via Snapchat, expressed relief and determination. “I teared up,” Chapman said. “It’s a little justice for [Sammy].”
In this exclusive interview, we speak with legal experts and public health advocates to delve deeper into the implications of this landmark case and its potential impact on social media accountability in the face of a national crisis.
Joining us today is Amy Johnson, a leading attorney specializing in internet law and product liability. Ms. Johnson, what are your initial thoughts on the judge’s decision to allow the Snapchat lawsuit to proceed?
“This is a truly significant growth. It suggests that courts are willing to examine the role social media platforms play in facilitating harmful activities, even when those activities occur through user-generated content. The plaintiffs will now have the possibility to present their case and expose Snapchat’s alleged negligence in protecting vulnerable users.”
– Amy Johnson, Attorney specializing in internet law and product liability
What are some of the key legal arguments being made in this case?
Snapchat argues its innocence, citing First Amendment protections and claiming federal laws shield it from product liability lawsuits. However, the plaintiffs contend that snapchat’s algorithms and features may have actively promoted the spread of fentanyl sales.
The Algorithm’s Role: Driving Dangerous Content?
Joining our discussion is Dr. Sarah Klein, a public health researcher who studies the impact of social media on youth.Dr. Klein,how might Snapchat’s algorithms contribute to the spread of fentanyl and related content?
“Algorithms are designed to keep users engaged,often by showing them content that aligns with their interests— sometimes even their vulnerabilities. This can create an echo chamber effect, where young people seeking connection or escaping discomfort might potentially be inadvertently exposed to dangerous content and predatory individuals.”
– Dr. Sarah Klein, Public Health Researcher
What responsibility do social media companies have in addressing this issue?
Dr. Klein emphasizes that social media companies must prioritize user safety and implement proactive measures to identify and remove harmful content. This includes investing in robust content moderation tools, collaborating with law enforcement agencies, and fostering clarity about their algorithms.
Justice for Families: The Road Ahead
Mr. Chapman, what are your hopes for this lawsuit moving forward? What message do you want to send to other families who have been affected by the fentanyl crisis?
“I hope this case shines a light on the dangers lurking within these platforms and forces Snapchat and other tech giants to finally take responsibility. We need them to prioritize protecting our children, not their profits. My message to other families is that you are not alone. Keep fighting, keep demanding justice, and never give up on seeking accountability for the loss of our loved ones.”
– Sam Chapman, Legal Action Advocate
Engagement and Action: What Can We Do?
this powerful lawsuit is a reminder of the urgent need for action. We must raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, demand greater transparency from social media companies, and support legislation that holds them accountable for the safety of their users.
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Read more about the fentanyl crisis and find resources for support.
