Survey of Law Enforcement Agencies Regarding Responses to Heroin

• In Event: Police Response to Drugs

Abstract

The rapidly increasing heroin crisis in the state of Ohio has forced authorities to engage in a variety of new tactics. Heroin immunity programs requesting individuals turn in their drugs without punishment and medical treatment programs are just some of the efforts put in place by local judges. However, law enforcement often serves as the first-responder in heroin-related emergencies and crimes. Through a statewide survey, this study aims to gain a better understanding of how law enforcement responds to the heroin epidemic and what resources they have available. Additionally, this study examines the community response to heroin extending outside of the criminal justice system.

Authors

• Joseph DeLeeuw, Ohio Northern University

• Jessica Regan Swanson, Indiana University