Jack Silver
Undergraduate Fellow, 2024-25
Social Studies
Jack Silvers is a recipient of a 2024 CAPS Undergraduate Summer Thesis Research Grant. Jack’s proposed thesis is entitled, “History Repeating Itself? A Qualitative Investigation of Law Enforcements Response to Fentanyl.”
Proposal synopsis: I propose a mixed-methods investigation of the law enforcement response to fentanyl overdoses in the U.S, focused on the use of homicide charges against people who share or sell drugs leading to overdose. By interviewing law enforcement officials, observing court proceedings, and analyzing the text of media articles and advocacy websites, I will test my hypothesis that prosecutors are being influenced by victim advocacy organizations to enact a punitive response. My project will be based in Oklahoma.