Medford Police Report Staggering Rise in Potential Overdose Deaths
Since the start of 2023, the Medford Police Department (MPD) has seen a staggering number of suspected overdose deaths within the Medford area. The Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement (MADGE) Team are actively working cases to combat current drug issues by putting an incredible amount of time and resources into fentanyl related cases. As previously mentioned by MPD, MADGE has seen the presence of xylazine (a central nervous system depressant) in recent fentanyl seizures.
“Fentanyl and xylazine are being found in everything right now,” said MADGE Sergeant Josh Reimer, referencing other drug seizures such as cocaine, methamphetamine or counterfeit opiate pills.
In March 2023, MPD responded to a total of 13 suspected overdose deaths within the City of Medford. This number is alarming, and the public should heed the advice from medical personnel and local law enforcement warning of the dangers of drug use in general.
“Any type of experimentation with street drugs is life-threatening, now more than ever,” said MPD Lieutenant Rebecca Pietila.
MPD wants the public to be aware of the current dangers related to drug use in our community. When using or experimenting with illicit drugs, the user is not aware of the actual contents or properties of the suspected drug they are about to consume. With the increase of fentanyl and xylazine in our area, it is likely the users will consume these substances unknowingly, thus experiencing an overdose.
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