Suspect Indicted for First-Degree Murder in Connection to Overdose Death

August 05, 2022

On Aug. 4, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) arrested one suspect for first-degree murder following a Grand Jury indictment resulting from a months-long investigation into a drug overdose in the community. The investigation determined the suspect was selling pressed fentanyl pills disguised as prescription painkillers.

On Jan. 1, 2021, TPD responded to the Forum Apartments, located at 2525 West Tennessee Street, in reference to a welfare check. Upon entering the residence, officers discovered an adult female deceased. It was determined the deceased female, Megan Hoffman, died as a result of a fentanyl overdose.

TPD’s General Narcotics Unit began a thorough investigation and identified Kurstin Hinson as the individual who sold Hoffman illegal narcotics. Probable cause was developed, and on Jan. 27, 2021, a search warrant was executed at Hinson’s residence. During the search, more than 40 pressed fentanyl pills were discovered at the residence, and Hinson later confessed to selling drugs to Hoffman in an interview.

For over a year, detectives worked tirelessly on the investigation with the State Attorney’s Office. On Aug. 3, 2022, the State Attorney’s Office presented the case to a Grand Jury, which indicted Hinson for first-degree murder for selling the controlled substance to Hoffman that caused her death. This is the first successful indictment in Leon County for a drug dealer selling a controlled substance resulting in an overdose death. 

"We are very pleased with the diligence, tenacity and thorough investigation conducted by the Tallahassee Police Department,” said Jennifer Hoffman, mother of Megan Hoffman. “We are also pleased with the Office of the State Attorney in pursuing these charges. With the incredible increase in fentanyl related deaths, we feel very fortunate to have the ability to seek justice for Megan when so many families never know. We sincerely hope this helps shine a bright light on the personal aspects of this epidemic and that Megan's death will have an impact on the greater good. She was a bright light in everyone's life that was extinguished far too soon."

Detectives with TPD’s Special Investigations section took Hinson into custody at his home on Aug. 4, 2022, for the first-degree murder indictment. At the time of the arrest, Hinson was in possession of more pills with a stamp indicating they were prescription painkillers. The pills have been submitted to a lab to determine if they are also fentanyl.

This investigation is a testament to TPD’s continuous dedication to addressing illegal drug activity in the community and bringing justice to the victim in this case. TPD reminds you, if you see something, say something. Report criminal activity by calling TPD at 850-891-4200. You can also remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 850-574-TIPS.

Arrested:

Kurstin Hinson, 27, for first-degree murder, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, possession of marijuana with intent to sell, possession of paraphernalia, and maintaining a drug house.

Photo of Megan Hoffman as provided by the family