Random tests by narcotic detection canines in local high schools, more public awareness through public safety announcements and addition of material on prescription drug abuse education in the GRADE program for schools, local media coverage - the Coral Springs police department is planning to pull out all stops to prevent the illegal use and distribution of prescription narcotics within the community.
Police Chief Duncan Foster recently told city officials his department had already stepped up enforcement efforts over the last few months. Since June, the department has made 14 arrests - 13 of them related to trafficking of prescription narcotics.
“We have been very busy since June,” Foster said. “Illegal prescription narcotics are some of the most abused drugs in the nation. We are dealing with a substance that is legal by itself. It is the use that makes it illegal. It is very hard to get off the pill; it really is an issue.”
As part of its enforcement efforts, the police department will gather intelligence on possible problem areas within the city, and advertise tip line for residents. It will also build relationships with local pharmacies and certify that they are complying with legal procedures that are in place to combat abuse of prescription narcotics.
“We have three officers doing narcotics enforcement; they work with federal agencies like the FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) and JTTF (Joint Terrorism Task Force),” said Foster. “We intend to have parents who have lost their loved ones through illegal use of prescription drugs speak in local high schools; the issue will also be raised at the principal education committee meeting.”
“We also plan to organize two drug destruction day events in the community in the coming year where old and unused prescription drugs will be destroyed,” the police chief said. “Enforcement efforts to stop illegal distribution of prescription drugs will continue.”
Mayor Scott Brook said teens had too easy access to illegal drugs. “The city manager and I had a discussion with a federal officer recently on the issue. That led to a discussion of children misusing prescription drugs. It is important to get the word out to parents. They should be told not to leave pills in medicine cabinets. I am glad this is one of our initiatives.”