Opiate Initiative Partnership Creating Positive Outcomes
Chief Raymond Hayducka announced that in the just over one month since the department initiated a new program to combat opiate usage there has been an outpouring of support and positive results. “Opiate addiction is a problem affecting the entire country, not just one community. We wanted to give people suffering addiction and their family members’ quicker access to the resources they need. The calls and emails I have received praising the police department’s response and follow through have been tremendous,” said Chief Hayducka.
In the past year and a half, South Brunswick has had 24 overdoses, with 4 deaths. On 12 occasions officers used the drug naloxone to reverse the heroin or opiate impact in an attempt to save the persons’ life. Under the new program South Brunswick police officers have an immediate resource for those needing assistance. The department has partnered with SOBA College Recovery, out of New Brunswick to assist people and families seeking treatment. When an officer is called to a scene or has contact with someone struggling with opiate addiction, the officer can provide a SOBA card. SOBA will provide potential treatment options and follow up with the individual. A SOBA representative came to the police department and provided officers with insights into addiction and treatment.
In the past month one family reached out to express how thankful they were that the department had a resource for them as they felt helpless. Another person wrote that by the officers just taking the time to speak with them and connect them to SOBA made all the difference. “We realize that this is not a cure, but creating a comprehensive plan that partners police and health care providers will create better outcomes and save lives,” said Chief Hayducka.
To contact SOBA College Recovery directly call (732)519-2022.
