To say there’s a serious heroin epidemic in the state of Wisconsin would be an understatement. It seems everyday I’m reading a new report about a heroin-related death in Wisconsin, and according to a recent survey of county coroners by the Wisconsin Department of Justice, the number of heroin-related deaths in Wisconsin rose about 50 percent last year to 199. By comparison, Wisconsin averaged 29 such deaths each year from 2000 to 2007.
Watch as “John” (State Rep. John Nygren) explains the effect Wisconsin’s heroin epidemic has had on his family.
In my day job, I’ve seen first-hand how pervasive heroin is in our communities here in southeastern Wisconsin, and I’ve witnessed the tremendously negative impact it has had on not just the community at large, but far too many family units within the community.
Not to be sarcastic, but this, in part, is a problem brought on by the war on drugs. Legalizing marijuana would have the effect of it likely becoming a less “harmful,” drug of choice. Easy peasy.
OT: And thanks again for the blog Zach, comments come through here without awaiting moderation for 72 and 48 hours, like is happening at Uppity WI.