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The St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested 19 people, including three people under age 18, for their alleged involvement in a drug ring responsible for distributing heroin and cocaine in the area. Charges included selling crack cocaine and heroin, possession of marijuana, and parole violation. An additional eight people are being sought by police for their connection to the group.
The problem of crack cocaine and heroin abuse and distribution had not been a primary issue in the area for several years. When the sheriff’s office heard that some activity was starting up in the area, they wasted no time in addressing the problem.
St. Bernard Sheriff Pohlmann said: “By trying to stamp it out, you eliminate the likelihood that people will be killed in turf wars or during robberies of drug dealers.”
Early Intervention
Sheriff Pohlmann’s intention to wipe out the drug issue before it became overwhelming to the area was a smart one. Just like with all aspects of addiction, the sooner you identify use of substances as problematic and take action to address it, the sooner you will begin the path to recovery and the less damage will be done overall.
Early intervention starts with early recognition of a problem. Because addiction often manifests in a number of different behaviors, there are a range of different signs that can indicate that help is needed. Some signs can include:
- Heavy or regular use of substances, engagement in gambling, overeating, and otherwise overindulging in behaviors that can be harmful to a person’s physical and mental health
- Feeling cravings for the behavior or otherwise being preoccupied with gambling, drug use, etc.
- Experiencing negative consequences as a result of continued engagement in these behaviors (e.g., health problems, legal problems, relationships difficulties, job loss, etc.)
- Being unable to manage or stop engagement in the behavior despite the increase in significant and even life-threatening problems
Every person’s experience in addiction is different, and it is important to take note of those differences from the beginning. This information will help to inform a more comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.
Early Action
Once an addiction disorder is suspected or identified, it is time to take immediate action. Unfortunately, one of the characteristics of addiction is for the person in need to feel that there may be another way, that perhaps they can manage the issue on their own and just make a commitment to stop drinking, using drugs, gambling, shopping, etc. Unfortunately, if that were a possibility, it would have already happened. Rather than waiting to see if it is possible to manage the issue independently, it is important to take immediate action and connect with treatment services that will be effective, swift, and safe in getting the problem under control before there are life-altering consequences.
The Impact of the Drug Ring Bust
The drug ring bust is being hailed as a major victory in the fight against drugs in Louisiana. Authorities say that the individuals who were arrested were responsible for trafficking large quantities of drugs, including methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine.
Louisiana State Police Superintendent Colonel Lamar Davis praised the work of the investigators who worked on the case, saying that their hard work and dedication helped to take dangerous drugs off the streets and put criminals behind bars.
The Impact of the Drug Ring on Communities
The drug ring bust has brought relief to many communities in Louisiana that have been affected by drug use and addiction. While the full extent of the damage caused by this drug ring is still being assessed, authorities say that the individuals who were arrested were responsible for trafficking large quantities of dangerous drugs.
Drug addiction is a serious problem in Louisiana, and it takes a toll on both individuals and communities. According to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Louisiana has one of the highest rates of drug overdose deaths in the country. In 2019 alone, there were over 1,200 drug overdose deaths in Louisiana.
The impact of these overdose deaths is felt not only by the families and loved ones of those who have died but also by entire communities. Overdose deaths can lead to increased crime rates, strain on healthcare systems, and decreased property values. The arrest of these individuals may help prevent future overdose deaths and mitigate some of these negative consequences.
However, there is still much work to be done to address drug addiction in Louisiana. Authorities are urging anyone who may be struggling with addiction or knows someone who is to seek help as soon as possible. There are resources available for those who need them, including treatment programs and support groups.
Future Monitoring of Drug Trafficking in Louisiana
While the recent drug ring bust is being celebrated as a victory, authorities recognize that there is still much work to be done to combat drug trafficking in Louisiana. Law enforcement agencies will continue to monitor and investigate individuals suspected of involvement in the illegal drug trade.
According to Colonel Lamar Davis, the Louisiana State Police will work closely with other law enforcement agencies to identify drug trafficking networks and disrupt their operations. This includes gathering intelligence, conducting surveillance, and executing search warrants when necessary.
In addition, the Louisiana State Police will continue to collaborate with local communities and organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use and addiction. By working together, law enforcement officials hope to make progress in reducing drug-related crime and improving public safety throughout the state.
It's important for residents of Louisiana to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to drugs or drug trafficking. By working together with law enforcement officials, we can help keep our communities safe from the harmful effects of drugs.
Rehabilitation Programs for Addiction in Louisiana
Drug addiction is a serious problem in Louisiana, but there are resources available to those who are struggling with addiction or know someone who is.
Many rehabilitation programs throughout the state offer support and treatment options for individuals seeking help. One such program is the Louisiana Department of Health's Office of Behavioral Health, which oversees a network of substance abuse clinics and treatment centers throughout the state.
These facilities offer a range of services, including:
- Detoxification
- Counseling
- Medication-assisted treatment
In addition to these public resources, there are also many private rehabilitation centers in Louisiana that provide specialized care for individuals struggling with addiction. These facilities may offer a variety of treatment options, including:
- Residential programs
- Outpatient programs
- Individual therapy sessions
It's important to note that seeking help for addiction can be challenging, but it's also one of the most important steps an individual can take towards recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction in Louisiana, consider reaching out to one of the many rehabilitation programs available throughout the state. With support and guidance from trained professionals, it's possible to overcome addiction and regain control over your life.
The Right Treatment Program
Once an addiction disorder has been identified and the person has committed to getting help, it is important to find the right treatment program. Too often, people enroll in the drug rehab that is closest to home or least expensive, with little attention paid to the specific services and supports offered.
At Clinical Services of Rhode Island, we begin every person’s program with testing that is chosen based on the things they are experiencing. Brain scans help to identify what parts of the brain have been impacted by substance use and abuse, trauma, and other issues. With this information, treatments and therapies can be chosen based upon their ability to positively impact these issues.
This focus on personalized care can help to ensure that every individual has access to the treatments and resources that will be most effective for them personally. This includes treatment for issues that are having an impact on their abilities to function on a day-to-day basis. For example, family therapy can help to improve communication at home, and job skills training can help to create and improve a solid resume to aid in finding the right job.
Once treatment is over, long-term support during the transition back home can help to ensure that the individual and their family have everything necessary to maintain a steady and stable new life in recovery.
Are you ready to take the first step in early intervention and treatment for yourself and your family?
Conclusion
The drug ring bust in Louisiana is a reminder that the war on drugs is far from over. While law enforcement agencies are making progress in the fight against drugs, there is still much work to be done. The state of Louisiana is committed to continuing its efforts to combat the illegal trafficking of drugs and to keep its citizens safe.
