RSS | Print | Comments | Tell a Friend | Larger Text | Smaller Text | Bookmark and Share

Local News

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Heroin, prescription drug abuse climb in NW Ohio: Part 1 of series
By JORDAN CRAVENS

staff writer

After seven years of being prescribed pain pills for a back injury, "Chris," 37, of North Baltimore, knew he had become a drug addict.

When his doctors stopped prescribing the pills, he turned to the street to get his highs. There, he even dabbled with heroin "when there was absolutely nothing else."

"Chris'" name has been changed for this article, but his story is typical of many in northwestern Ohio, according to authorities, who report heroin and prescription drug abuse have increased dramatically.

"The rise in heroin cases came from out of nowhere last year," said Findlay police Capt. Sean Young. "We went from finding glass pipes and 'stems' to finding syringes."

Glass pipes and "stems" are associated with crack cocaine use, while syringes are linked with heroin, Young said.

Forced to the streets to score drugs after prescriptions run out, addicts sometimes turn to heroin because it's cheaper.

It costs $100 for a gram of heroin, which is good for about two or three doses, according to Findlay police Sgt. Jim Mathias. OxyContin, usually prescribed for pain, is selling illegally for about $80 for an 80-milligram tablet, usually a single dose, he said.

These drugs are highly addictive and can be fatal.

Two Findlay men, Taylor Akerman, 19, and Aaron Grotrian, 20, died of heroin overdoses in the past year.

The drugs also have been deadly in Hardin County, according to Kenton Police Chief John Vermillion.

"In the past year, there have been a few people who have overdosed on heroin, but a few years back, about every two months, we had a heroin overdose death," Vermillion said.

Putnam County Sheriff James Beutler said, "Prescription drugs are the drug of choice right now for a variety of ages because they are deemed somewhat 'legal'" to the user.

Pain pills are easy to get and can be obtained as easily as taking them from a medicine cabinet, he said.

Opiates, which include heroin and pain pills like OxyContin, Percocet and Vicodin, are being abused by people of all ages, but particularly by those in their late teens and 20s, according to police.

High school students as young as 15 are also abusing heroin and pain pills, according to drug treatment providers.

"It used to be marijuana was the gateway drug, but now it's the prescription medications that are leading people down that road," Mathias said.

Accordingly, social services are being tailored to help heroin and pain pill addicts. Methadone and Suboxone, transitional drugs used to wean people away from these drugs, are prescribed to help with addiction.

Police have joined forces to help combat increased drug use, and community leaders have launched their own task force to attack the problem.

A look at indictments in Hancock County Common Pleas Court shows the increasing opiate problem.

Last year, there were 10 people indicted for heroin offenses out of 94 drug indictments handed up. Another 28 indictments were for other opiate offenses.

"Prior to 2009, we probably had one or two heroin cases per year," said Hancock County Assistant Prosecutor Drew Wortman.

Prosecutor Mark Miller said, up until last year, there were reports of heroin in other counties, but not in Hancock County.

Sentencing drug offenders is a challenge for Hancock County Common Pleas Judges Joseph Niemeyer and Reginald Routson.

They try to separate the drug users from drug dealers, but that line is often blurred. Some users become dealers to support their habits, the judges said.

The Legislature sets parameters for judges in sentencing. In some cases, prison is mandatory and, in other cases, there is a structure that tells judges whether the crime favors prison or not, Routson said.

"Just sending everyone to prison, will that solve our problems? No," he said.

A community control sanction, often referred to as probation, is an alternative to prison and is sometimes used by the judges.

Community control can last up to five years, and can be a combination of jail time, supervision by the probation department, electronic monitoring, a work-release program, drug and alcohol counseling, education classes, or sending a person to the Western Ohio Regional Treatment and Habilitation Center in Lima.

At the center, the offender is in a locked building, but the person also pursues treatment, a high school diploma, parenting classes, and anger management courses, for example. The program typically lasts four to six months.

Another sanction is to enroll an offender in the Hancock County Adult Probation Department's program for cognitive-behavioral treatment. The program tries to alter the offender's thinking.

"It's really what the professionals in the field are telling us works," Niemeyer said.

If offenders are placed on community control, judges reserve prison time for them if they violate their sanctions.

And there is treatment in prisons, Routson said. There are programs for offenders convicted of drunken driving, community service work, education opportunities, and drug abuse treatment, according to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.

"It's not just warehousing, but it is becoming more difficult to provide programming," with overcapacity in prisons and less money to work with, Routson said.

"The waiting lists are a lot longer and some opportunities are just not provided any more."

A judge can choose to release a person from prison early, which is known as "judicial release." The judge may use the Lima center or another treatment center as a "step-down" from prison to help ease a person's transition back into society.

Along the same lines is "transitional control," in which an offender, during the last six months of a prison term, can be placed in a halfway house to help with reintegration.

"Intervention in lieu of conviction" is when a judge orders the offender to enroll in a treatment center for drug or alcohol abuse and abide by other requirements. If they complete the treatment and follow the rules, the offense does not go on their record.

Online:

www.drc.ohio.gov



Cravens: 419-427-8422,

Send an e-mail to Jordan Cravens


Subscribe to The Courier.
Comment on This Story
NOTE: Comment moderation has been enabled. If you see a comment that violates our Electronic User Agreement, please e-mail webmaster@thecourier.com. Thank you. If you are having problems viewing this Web page, please contact our Internet Department to help us diagnose and correct the problem. We may contact you for more information. Thanks in advance.
Your e-mail address will not be displayed on this website or shared with anyone. It is used by our online editor for contacting purposes.
Comments are moderated by The Courier according to its Electronic User Agreement within one business day. Comments that slander others or include language that violates the agreement will be rejected. All comments that impart opinion and information are welcome.

12 Comments (2 pages)

Latest comments listed first.
who cares wrote:
RE: Jodi Spratt
“ Drug use and abuse is a choice. It is not our problem some people are to weak minded to make better choices in life. I think if the family is that upset than where was this family at 16 yrs old, enabling this behavior. I have 1 bit of info for you!! People make there own choices! stop wanting a pity party! I would say 99% of people agree, "If you choose to do the drugs, the problems are your own!" I think its time for your family to move on! You are not a victim regardless of what you think! What happened to your family happens all over the country and in larger numbers! Hang it up it is not your fault! You just need to realize that people make their own choices and at 16 yrs old I knew what drugs were, my god they teach you in school! Peer pressure is also such a cop-out. Sounds more like weak mindedness and the lack of ambition and the ability to make choices for themselves! I may copy and re-post this since you think that somehow you family is the center of the universe! I think I would put anything along those lines in STAR or something!! ”
Monday, July 26, 2010 9:43:45 AM
Jodie Spratt wrote:
RE: Who Cares
“ I do, and you may think I am old, but it is everyone's problem. I am the aunt of a young man that o.d. and I can assure you he was not hanging out at some street corner! You young man need some education on the abuse of drugs, Pot or other wise. Where do you think it begins? I can assure you that if my nephew could have found the right kind of help that he would have taken it, and do you feel that it is worth their life? I do agree that Findlay is not seeing the amount of drugs that come into the city, but again it begins with the smallest amounts and grows from there, I am sure that you are above getting hooked on pain meds, good for you. I think you need a good look at how harsh your words are, and remember that most do not intend on getting hooked at 16 years old, it was a peer or someone that told them that they could not get hooked! This is why there is a problem, because the way you see it it not your problem or anyone elses. Lets just make pot legal and this will help how? Please remember that with every drug habit that there is, a family is praying and hoping for some help for their loved one. If you know that there is a problem in Findlay then help clean up your city and get involved! ”
Sunday, July 25, 2010 7:48:33 PM
Trey wrote:
Heroin, prescription drug abuse climb in NW Ohio
“ In findlay, Heroin is getting just like marijuana. By this i mean easily accessible. Its so weird how you get racked in court for some pot but they cant find the dealers. Just a little weird to me. ”
Sunday, July 25, 2010 5:16:00 PM
loki wrote:
Lets look at the truth of the situation....
“ Why is there "prescription drug abuse"?
People that are in real pain are denied relief from their pain by their doctors due to iron fisted laws from washington dc.
If these people could receive pain relief with a doctors supervision, they wouldnt have to purchase their "drugs" off the streets.

Instead of doctors relying on over the counter "pain medications", the doctors could issue real pain pills.

If we had a society where a person was responsible for their own actions, we wouldnt need this war on drugs. But as of lately its been "not my fault, its the *named items* fault"
drugs, alcohol, what ever gets the blame.

Focus on the problem.. why do these people need to do illegal acts to get pain pills, do they do it just to get high, or reduce pain that their doctors cannot or will not deal with.
 ”
Sunday, July 25, 2010 12:47:59 PM
TJ wrote:
WOW! All the bigger issues in the world and a page is dedicated to this!
“ Drug addiction is a problem all over the world. I read a comment where a person feels like its the doctor's fault that a person is addicted, I beg to differ. People have the ability of free choice and like all freedoms some people abuse it! If a doctor fails to treat a patient people want to sue for malpractice. Pain is also subjective and can be very serious and disabling for some people. On the other hand,look at the depths of the lies people will tell so that they can get that next high or a prescription to sell for $80 a pill to fuel the vicious cycle of abuse that continues for some of these people. Instead of looking for someone to blame let the addict be responsible for their own choices!Wow that's one someone should think about. Along with free choice they also can seek the option of treatment after all, for those who pay taxes this is one of those entitlement programs we all pay for called Medicaid/Medicare. I refuse to enable these people by feeling sorry for them. I see addiction for what it is. If you want the help to try to sober up, it's there for you. The same way I see people claim their in so much pain that they need pain medication, can be pain free enough to find the dope dealer to get their next fix and don't care who they hurt in the process. People need to realize that addiction is more complicated than the drug habit, people usually choose drug because they are trying to deal with other issues and use as a form of helping them forget their internal issues.And the best medication we all can give them is make addicts be accountable for their own choices and face their problem that is usually a root cause for their addiction in the first place@ ”
Sunday, July 25, 2010 2:18:09 AM
who cares wrote:
DRUGS!
“ I find it amazing how people want to play concerned about this. My opinion is this: "if you choose to abuse drugs its your problem!" Not my problem not anyone elses problem it is theirs! I am 31 years old and have taken several different pain meds through my life but I have never found myself on the corner looking for a fix! It is also funny how people want to act like this hasn't been going on here! I can guarantee you when I was in school there was a lot more than pot, and it hasn't gotten much better! Findlay is just real good at hiding the problems it has. I also believe that the city, and state need to start worrying more about the Heroin and Cocaine issues and stop running stings on guys for an ounce of weed! Many cities and states have already decriminalized the drug or you get a small fine for small amounts. I can say that I myself do not use drugs, but in most cases I would rather have someone smoking pot compared to being DRUNK!! I'm sure I will get FLAMED by all the old people, and they're the problem! Go figure a republican that thinks that pot should be LEGAL and they should spend more time Kicking in the doors where all these smack heads are hanging out! If you need help go get it!! Sorry statistically if your on the H, you are hooked for life..... Either you will O.D. or you will get Hepatitas, or the big HIV! Either way the problem comes from everybody in Findlay turning a blind eye! Its a Shame!! ”
Saturday, July 24, 2010 10:47:04 PM
Jodie Spratt wrote:
Re: JP
“ I think the article is going to do the communities of every town in NW Ohio a great deal of good. DO you know how hard it is for an addict or family to come forward to talk about this problem ? I am greatful that this man is willing to talk about it so openly, drugs are everywhere and in all communities and if you think that they are not in your town, you better look around. I am greatful for the Courier for this series, and hope some big steps are taken to get more help for this growing problem and maybe more lives will be saved. ”
Saturday, July 24, 2010 7:09:20 PM
Don wrote:
Heroin
“ jordan Cravens,

As a Therapist in the substance abuse treatment profession and experienced in heroin addiction, detoxification and treatment, i appreciate your efforts informing the community of the dangers and alternatives of Heroin and other opiates. However, the judicial system, ADAMS and the treatment profession have much more work to address the issues of heroin and it consequences to an addict, family and community. ”
Saturday, July 24, 2010 12:58:36 PM
Jeanne wrote:
Would like MD and pharmacist to weigh in
“ on the topic, and maybe they will through this week's series. I hope there is also information about how to properly dispose of stored, unused pain pills that are in most everyone's medicine cabinet. Also explore why we keep them past potentially needing them...paid for them and might need them in a pinch? Also, what is the best way to properly and securely store them at home. Appreciate the newspaper's focus on the problem! ”
Saturday, July 24, 2010 11:01:08 AM
Jodie Spratt wrote:
Herion use
“ Thank you for getting this to the public, I am Aarons aunt and know how hard it is for the familys and the addict to kick this habit. I live out of state, but am keeping a close eye on things. ”
Saturday, July 24, 2010 10:17:16 AM
   NEWS VIDEO

Benton Ridge Shooting

This video, released by the Hancock County Prosecutor's Office, shows the shooting of a Lima man who led authorities on a three-county chase ending Aug.24 in Benton Ridge. Be cautioned, the video contains graphic content.
   SPECIAL SECTIONS
Summer Coupons
   WEEKEND
USA Weekend

ANDERSON COOPER: Five years after Hurricane Katrina, the CNN reporter returns to New Orleans as the Gulf Coast faces even newer challenges.


Roses are red...

SOLUTIONS, NOT PROBLEMS: The University of Findlay plays host to competitive sailor who is a quadruple amputee.

ALSO IN WEEKEND: Area events,
prep boys and girls soccer and a trip to Niagra Falls.

   STAY IN TOUCH
The Courier on Facebook
   VIRTUAL VILLAGE
TisaWee Farm

Far Flung Guest Book

Virtual Village
   PHOTO GALLERY
Randy's Seen

IMAGE BLOG: Go behind the scenes with Courier photographer Randy Roberts.


You can purchase photographs from The Courier through our easy-to-use online system. Get prints, mousepads, T-shirts and more!

   LOCAL NEWS
  LATEST COMMENTS Last 10 comments submitted by our readers...
j wrote in article "Many winners named as Hancock Fair opens":
Good but little expensive
“ The fair was interesting, but at $5 for the more popular rides on the expensive side, same with the food, many people commented... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 10:37:10 AM
JM wrote in article "McComb couple is serious about fair competition":
Very nice!
“ What a lovely article. Will have to check out their goods at the fair. ” Read More...
9/2/2010 10:21:42 AM
Ed wrote in article "Shooting video released":
Dirt bag...
“ A head shot would have put an end to the both dirt bag's chance of getting more money. NATE: could it be that you have some fir... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 9:53:26 AM
Yfkm wrote in article "Heroin outbreak":
Denial
“ To Tony and TL Every good citizen, parent and public official advocates the eradication of drugs from our communities; you are n... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 9:08:20 AM
Penny Musgrave wrote in article "Shooting video released":
Benton Ridge Shooting
“ Although I am all for catching the criminal, I don't condone what was done to this guy. They converged on him like gangbusters b... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 8:43:07 AM
Yfkm wrote in article "Parole denied in murder case":
Unqualified reassurance
“ To Tony - here is another example of your inability to see situations as they really are. It is obvious that you are so self in... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 8:42:45 AM
JP wrote in article "Pigskin Picks":
Wood Shed???
“ "Bubba," why would a Tiger take a Polar Bear to the wood shed? Wouldn't it be more likely that: Tigers knock Polar Bears into a... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 7:16:48 AM
poor victim!!!!! wrote in article "Shooting video released":
Nate
“ Nate your a moron and obviously do not know a thing about use of force. Also most taser cartridges carried have a 15 ft to 35 f... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 7:15:05 AM
Ryan wrote in article "Shooting video released":
Research
“ It doesn't matter if there was a weapon found or not. An officer's job is based upon perception and their objective reasonablen... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 7:05:15 AM
Derek wrote in article "Shooting video released":
Nate......what???
“ Nate, first of all, police officer's don't carry mase. If they did, the would carry maCe. Now, if you did some research, you'd... ” Read More...
9/2/2010 4:02:04 AM
  U.S. Headlines
  World News
  Ohio News
News Briefs Firefighters discover 20 marijuana plants in house
After fighting a house fire early Monday at 815 Howard St., firefighters found 20 marijuana plants in the residence.

"They ran across it and called us," said police Sgt. Justin Hendren with the Hancock County METRICH Drug Enforcement Unit.

Police seized all 20 plants, and Hendren said charges are pending.

High-powered growing lights, fans, and a box filled with dried marijuana were also found in the house, according to a police report.

Investigators said an electrical short started the fire before 3 a.m. Monday.

The blaze caused an estimated $12,000 in damage to the residence, owned by Amanda Crawford. No one was injured, according to the Findlay Fire Department.

Carey announces holiday closing
CAREY -- Carey offices, including administrative, income tax and utilities, electric, wastewater treatment plant, and public works, will be closed Monday in observance of Labor Day.

The curbside recycling program will be held Tuesday through Thursday, Sept. 7-9.

Findlay trooper named sergeant
Trooper Jacob L. Fletcher, assigned to the Findlay post of the State Highway Patrol, was promoted to sergeant Wednesday by Patrol Superintendent Col. David Dicken.

With the promotion, Fletcher will stay at the Findlay post and serve as an assistant post commander, according to the patrol.

Fletcher began his patrol career in 2002 after graduating from the 139th Academy class and has been assigned to the Findlay post since.

Owens announces holiday schedule
The Toledo and Findlay campuses of Owens Community College will be closed Saturday through Monday for the Labor Day holiday.

There will be no classes and the college offices will be closed.

Classes will resume and offices will open again on Tuesday.

Holiday changes ad deadlines
The Courier won't be published on Monday, in observance of the Labor Day holiday.

Because of the holiday, some advertising deadlines have been moved up this week:

Black and white display advertising for Tuesday's newspaper must be placed by noon Friday. Display advertising for Wednesday's newspaper must be placed by 2:30 p.m. Friday.

Color display advertising for the Thursday, Sept. 9 newspaper must be placed by Friday.

Classified advertising and City and Country advertising for Saturday's newspaper must be placed by 2 p.m. Friday. Classified ads for Tuesday's newspaper must be placed by 2:30 p.m. Friday.

Courier business and advertising offices will close at 3 p.m. Friday for the holiday.