(Chillicothe, Ohio) – The Ohio Department of Public Safety, RecoveryOhio, and the Ross County Sheriff’s Office worked with local law enforcement and treatment agencies to conduct a coordinated drug/outreach saturation event known as Operation BRIDGE, or Bridging Recovery and Interdiction Data Gathering Enforcement. The purpose of the two-day event was to remove drugs and drug traffickers from the streets while connecting those with substance use disorder to treatment.
Law enforcement agencies fanned out across Ross County to confiscate illegal drugs and to stop those responsible for supplying drugs to the area. Quick Response Team (QRT) personnel connected individuals in need of recovery support to services and treatment.
“This comprehensive approach to the substance use crisis has proven successful,” said Kristen Slaper, Director of the Office of Law Enforcement Initiatives at DPS. “Every county that has held an Operation BRIDGE saturation event has seen a marked decrease in overdoses for several weeks afterwards. That is proof that lives are being saved.”
During Operation BRIDGE, law enforcement made 4 arrests and seized 7 grams of cocaine, and 35 grams of methamphetamine, while 16 people were referred to treatment. Based on the operation occurring in specific locations, team members were able to help an individual suffering from an overdose and used naloxone which ultimately saved that individual’s life.
RecoveryOhio supported the mission by working with local agencies and distributed 75 naloxone kits. Naloxone (also known as Narcan) is a medication that can reverse an overdose caused by an opioid drug (heroin, fentanyl, or prescription pain medications). To access naloxone, visit www.naloxone.ohio.gov
“Operation BRIDGE is not just a strategy; it’s a testament to our commitment to helping people with substance use disorder,” said Aimee Shadwick, Director of RecoveryOhio. “In a rapidly evolving landscape, the ability to swiftly adapt and respond is paramount. This effort shows our dedication to proactive problem-solving and unwavering support for our mission.”
Participating agencies included:
- Ross County Sheriff’s Office
- Chillicothe Police Department
- Hocking County Sheriff’s Office
- Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center (ONIC)
- Ohio State Highway Patrol
- US 23 Pipeline Major Crimes Unit Drug Taskforce
- Ohio Adult Parole Authority
- Ohio Investigative Unit
Police and public health officials have found that drug supply disruptions can increase the overdose risk for people with substance dependence. To find treatment options in Ross County, contact the U.S. 23 Major Crimes Task Force at (740) 775-1208 or recoveryohio.gov/get-help.
Immediately after taking office in 2019, Governor DeWine signed an executive order creating the RecoveryOhio initiative to support aggressive measures to combat the opiate epidemic by investing in the health and well-being of Ohio citizens.