The number
of heroin overdoses in Calvert County and across the nation continues to
increase annually. Prescription drug
abusers are finding it more difficult to get their hands on the often abused
prescription pills and have subsequently turned to heroin as a cheaper more
easily accessible alternative.
Fraudulent prescriptions continue to be a significant problem, in addition
to the heroin epidemic.
As a result
of the increase in heroin overdoses in Calvert County, the Sheriff’s Office has
trained and equipped the majority of our patrol deputies with NARCAN. When deputies arrive on the scene of
overdoses with unconscious subjects they administer NARCAN which reduces the
side effects of the substance the individuals have overdosed on. Individuals who have overdosed and receive
NARCAN are transported to Calvert Memorial Hospital where they are seen by a
doctor before they are released. While
the NARCAN takes the side effects away and brings the subjects out of their
unconscious state, it does not take the substance out of their system. If the subjects “shoot up” or ingest heroin
or other opiates after being administered NARCAN without being seen by a
doctor, the potential for a fatal overdose is significantly increased. Individuals who call for assistance for subjects
who have overdosed are exempt from facing criminal charges.
Calvert
County Sheriff’s Office patrol personnel continue to make arrests for
violations of the controlled dangerous substance laws. The CCSO Drug Enforcement Unit focuses on
arresting and prosecuting those selling controlled dangerous substances. While law enforcement throughout the state
continues to battle the heroin epidemic, it is a far bigger problem than law
enforcement can address alone. Citizens
are encouraged to contact Calvert County Crime Solvers at 410-535-2880 to
report any tips on drug or illicit activity.
