In Missouri, when an illicit drug overdose results in death, several state statutes and federal laws may apply, particularly concerning the failure to render aid, tampering with evidence, and Good Samaritan protections.

Missouri State Laws:

1. Drug-Induced Homicide:
   
   • Missouri does not have a specific "drug-induced homicide" statute. However, individuals involved in the distribution of controlled substances that lead to another person's death can be charged under existing homicide laws. For instance, under Missouri Revised Statutes § 565.021, a person can be convicted of second-degree murder if someone dies during the perpetration or attempted perpetration of a felony, such as the distribution of a controlled substance.
     

1. Failure to Render Aid and Good Samaritan Protections:
   
   • Missouri's Good Samaritan Law, codified in § 195.205, provides immunity from certain drug-related offenses for individuals who seek medical assistance during an overdose situation. Specifically:
     • A person who, in good faith, seeks or obtains medical assistance for someone experiencing a drug or alcohol overdose, or a person experiencing such an emergency who seeks assistance for themselves, shall not be arrested, charged, prosecuted, convicted, or penalized for specific drug violations if the evidence was obtained as a result of seeking medical assistance.
       
     • This immunity applies to:
       • Possession of a controlled substance under certain conditions.
       • Possession of drug paraphernalia.
     • It's important to note that this immunity does not extend to more severe offenses, such as drug trafficking or distribution.

1. Tampering with Evidence:
   
   • Tampering with physical evidence is a criminal offense in Missouri. While the Good Samaritan Law encourages seeking medical assistance during overdose situations, it does not provide immunity for actions like tampering with evidence. Engaging in such conduct can lead to charges of obstruction of justice or tampering with physical evidence.

Federal Laws:

1. Distribution of Controlled Substances Resulting in Death:
   
   • Under federal law, specifically 21 U.S.C. § 841(b)(1)(C), distributing controlled substances that result in death or serious bodily injury carries enhanced penalties. Convictions can lead to a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years to life imprisonment.

1. Obstruction of Justice:
   
   • Tampering with evidence or hindering an investigation into a drug-related death can lead to federal obstruction of justice charges, which carry significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Important Considerations:

• While Missouri's Good Samaritan Law aims to encourage individuals to seek emergency assistance during overdose situations without fear of prosecution for certain drug-related offenses, these protections are limited. They do not provide immunity for more severe offenses, such as drug trafficking, distribution resulting in death, or evidence tampering.
• It's crucial for individuals to act promptly and responsibly during overdose situations, seeking immediate medical assistance to potentially save lives and to be aware of the legal implications of their actions.

For personalized legal advice, it's recommended to consult with a legal professional familiar with Missouri and federal laws.