Circulating drugs in the area drawing concern from law enforcement
By Jenna Wilson
Illegal drugs continue to be a concern for local law enforcement officers, but they’re finding some are circulating the area more often than others.
Officials with the Buchanan County Drug Strike Force say there’s a growing concern for the amount of heroin, methamphetamines and fentanyl that they’re finding on the street.
These drugs are some of the most prevalent illegal drugs due to reasons like low cost and accessibility, but officials warn most of these street drugs come with the risk of being laced.
“I think our biggest problem now is that what we’re seeing is the, you know, people who are making illegal drugs are mixing several different things,” said Capt. Shawn Collie with the Drug Strike Force. “Whether it’s meth, cocaine or heroin with fentanyl. Then you factor in the new dangerous drug that’s circulating, xylazine; it’s all becoming a problem and it’s one that Narcan isn’t able to help with at all.”
This draws concern for the younger generation as even drugs that are considered “lighter” drugs such as marijuana are now being laced with lethal drugs, Collie added.
“The drug culture is changing drastically by the day,” he said. “So for us, all the drugs out there are of concern, and we try to approach those drugs with urgency, especially when it comes to our younger population around schools.”
Xylazine is often referred to as the “zombie” drug, as it can cause damage to the bodily tissue and lead to skin damage. New forms of drugs on the streets are having a big impact on people’s health and behaviors.
“Drug use is something you really need to be open about with your family and loved ones,” Collie said. “A lot of times when you have a family member or a friend who’s using, their behavior changes. Oftentimes it may lead to criminal elements, whether it’s stealing cars, stealing at stores or stealing for drugs and a lot of mental health issues go along with that where the person is just not the same person anymore and that could lead to unintentional overdoses or suicide.”
Individuals battling drug addiction are encouraged to reach out for help to prevent the loss of a life.
