Walt Lamar: Indian Country confronts a new threat with heroin

Friday, September 30, 2011  

"For a decade, heroin use has been declining across the United States, and particularly in Indian Country. The Indian Country Drug Threat Assessment of 2008 showed 15 percent less heroin use than in 2000, and a proportional drop in the number of heroin-related crimes or people seeking treatment on reservations. But troubling new numbers, released in August by the Justice department and statewide drug enforcement programs show that heroin use may be on the rise again, threatening community well-being, public health and law enforcement resources.

Mexican drug cartels have been producing heroin in record quantities, and both black tar and brown powder heroin have flooded U.S. markets. Because of its prevalence and low price, heroin is replacing both cocaine and prescription drugs for some users.

We monitor dangerous drug trends. Our training clients and relatives are telling us they are starting to see an increase in heroin use in our tribal communities. Vigilance is key. These drugs will greatly impact the quality of life, health, and safety of our communities.

For over 6 years we have been sounding the alarm that prescription drug diversion has been a growing problem in Indian Country and designed training specific to its abuse in our tribal communities. As prescription drug monitoring programs and other proactive efforts are reducing the availability of prescription drugs, particularly opiate based drugs such as OxyContin and Vicodin, we now believe the return of heroin is imminent."

Get the Story:
Walt Lamar: Heroin: Our Next Major Battle? (Indian Country Today 9/29)