The abuse of Fentanyl has become an epidemic. A powerful prescription painkiller, Fentanyl is so powerful that just two milligrams is enough to kill the average adult. Since 2010, the number of Fentanyl deaths has doubled in Ontario.
Fentanyl is commonly found in patch form, designed to provide a slow release of medication. It is normally only prescribed to patients with acute pain.
Addicts abuse Fentanyl by shredding the patches and using small portions to get high. Without an accurate dosing formula, it’s easy to overdose when used in this way.
Also concerning to Police is ‘bootleg Fentanyl’, an illicitly created form that is sold only as a street drug. Again, the potency is so strong that a few grains can cause death. It is often disguised by mixing it with other illicit drugs such as cocaine or heroin.
South Simcoe Police and other law enforcement agencies are partnering with Crimestoppers in an effort to reduce and stop Fentanyl use and trafficking.
Crime Stoppers of Simcoe-Dufferin-Muskoka will pay a $1000 reward to tipsters during the months of February and March 2017 for information that leads to the seizure of illicit Fentanyl or derivatives for the purpose of trafficking and/or the arrest of individuals involved in trafficking Fentanyl in our communities.
The use of any illegal drugs are of concern
