Village of Westmont
Date Issued: April 21, 2016
The FBI, DEA, and Village of Westmont recently teamed up to debut the release of a new educational video titled “Chasing the Dragon” at Westmont High School. The film depicts the tragedies associated with drug abuse - specifically prescription drugs and heroin.
“This initial debut of the video was intended for teachers and the media only,” says Police Chief Tom Mulhearn who was a featured speaker on the guest panel after the showing. “The goal of this initiative is to get everyone talking about this troublesome situation - teachers, kids, families, parents, law enforcement. This is a problem that will only get addressed properly if there is proactive education, awareness, and action.” Pictures from the film debut can be found on the Village of Westmont Photo Gallery: villageofwestmont.smugmug.com/2016/2016-04-20-FBI-DEA-Heroin/
“This epidemic does not discriminate; All across this country, it is taking good people from good homes and leading them down a trail that often ends in pain and sadness,” said FBI Director James Comey. “This film may be difficult to watch, but we hope it educates our students and young adults about the tragic consequences that come with abusing these drugs and that it will cause people to think twice before becoming its next victim.”
The opioid and prescription drug abuse epidemic has swept through the country. Statistics show that overdose deaths from heroin abuse have more than doubled since 2010. More people die each year from drug overdoses than die in car accidents. Because an opioid addiction can take hold after the first use, it is hoped that this film will help generate discussions that will lead a greater understanding of the dangers of the addiction, its impact on both the victim and their loved ones, and the often deadly consequences of opioid abuse.
“The numbers are appalling and shocking—tens of thousands of Americans will die this year from drug-related deaths and more than half of these deaths are from heroin and prescription opioid overdoses,” said Acting DEA Administrator Chuck Rosenberg. “You will see in Chasing the Dragon opioid abusers that have traveled a remarkably dangerous and self-destructive path. I hope this will be a wakeup call for folks. Please pay close attention to this horrific epidemic. Help reverse it. Save a life. Save a friend. Save a loved one.”
“Chasing the Dragon” is a compelling presentation that includes some harsh language and graphic images - viewer discretion is advised. A copy of the video can be found on the FBI website at: www.fbi.gov/news/stories/2016/february/raising-awareness-of-opioid-addiction/video/chasing-the-dragon-the-life-of-an-opiate-addict
“If anyone has questions about drug abuse, do not hesitation, please contact the Police Department or call 9-1-1,” says Mulhearn. “We will be sure to assist with providing the help you need.”
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Contact: Larry McIntyre
Village of Westmont Communications Director
630-981-6245, lmcintyre@westmont.il.gov
