Tennessee Judge Duane Slone is remembered for his fight against the drug crisis

East Tennessee is mourning the untimely death of a judge who was particularly concerned with helping drug-addicted defendants and who fought for more resources to contain the epidemic.

“The death of Judge Slone is a tragic loss for the judiciary and the state of Tennessee,” 4th District Court Judge James Gass wrote in a statement.

“His most important contribution to our justice system was his groundbreaking work to combat the effects of opioid addiction in those who appeared before him. These efforts resulted in countless citizens recovering from their addiction and returning to sober, productive lives.”

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