The leader of the Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team says the COVID-19 pandemic has threatened the progress Marion County and other jurisdictions have made in eliminating the opioid crisis.
Ocala Police Capt. Corey Taylor said many overdose deaths have been successfully thwarted because of the availability and administration of Narcan by victims’ family, friends, and in some cases, Good Samaritans.
“As those suffering from opioid substance use disorder find themselves alone (due to quarantine requirements), Narcan is no longer an option,” Taylor said. “The disruption to recovery routines and access to treatment could negatively impact people whose rehabilitation depends on daily care.”
Those who are suffering during the Coronavirus outbreak are encouraged to reach out to the Ocala Police Department for help. Taylor said officers are still there to help and want to offer their support during this difficult time.
“Lockdowns and social distancing have likely forced doctors, social services, and support groups to shut down, reduce hours, or move online — leaving people who use drugs and those in recovery to face greater risks with less support,” Taylor said, while reminding those who are struggling that there still are opportunities to heal.
Taylor was honored last month in Washington, D.C. with the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas award for Outstanding Task Force Commander of the Year. He is the first law enforcement officer from Florida to receive the prestigious award.
UDEST is an initiative of the North Florida High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area. It is comprised of local, state and federal law enforcement from the Ocala Police Department, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Drug Enforcement Administration and Department of Homeland Security.