COVID-19: Combating the Opioid Epidemic

The coronavirus pandemic poses unique and severe challenges for people suffering from substance use disorders or in recovery, which is why Suffolk County has experienced a marked increase in drug overdoses since the onset of this crisis. Even in these uncertain times, once thing is for sure: the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office remains committed to putting an end to the opioid epidemic facing our region.

TARGETING MAJOR DRUG TRAFFICKERS:

The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office (SCDAO) is dedicated to targeting & prosecuting drug dealers, particularly those who are causing fatal overdoses. Over the past two years, the SCDAO has obtained a historic number of narcotics search warrants and launched a new Special Narcotics Bureau to target large-scale drug trafficking organizations. The SCDAO leads the state in charging drug dealers with Operating as a Major Trafficker, which carries a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison.

To report suspected drug dealing in your community, call the Suffolk County Police Department anonymously at 631-852-NARC or by texting “TIP SUFFOLK” followed by your tip to the number 888-777.

DIVERSION PROGRAMS:

Under the leadership of District Attorney Tim Sini, the SCDAO has invested in a spectrum of opportunities for intervention to divert people suffering from substance use disorders away from the criminal justice system and into treatment.

Preventing Incarceration Via Opportunities for Treatment (PIVOT): Connects at-risk individuals with treatment even before they come into contact with the criminal justice system.

CARE Program: Offers non-violent drug offenders the opportunity to have criminal charges dismissed if they meaningfully engage in treatment.

Drug Treatment Court: Provides treatment and support to non-violent drug offenders suffering from drug or alcohol dependency as an alternative to incarceration.

TREATMENT & RECOVERY RESOURCES:

Suffolk County’s 24-Hour Substance Abuse Hotline Operated by Long Island Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence (LICADD): 631-979-1700

Diagnostic, Assessment and Stabilization Hub (DASH) 24-Hour Hotline: 631-952-3333

THRIVE Recovery Community & Outreach Center: 631-822-3396

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