In a concerning development for public health officials and law enforcement agencies, carfentanil, an extremely potent synthetic opioid, has made its first appearance on Long Island. This alarming news comes as the result of a seven-month narcotics investigation in Suffolk County, New York.
What is Carfentanil?
Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid that is 100 times more potent than fentanyl, which is itself 50 times stronger than heroin. Typically used as a tranquilizer for large mammals such as elephants, carfentanil has now found its way into the illegal drug market, posing a severe risk to human life.
More info about Carfentanil: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carfentanil
The Investigation and Arrests
The recent investigation led to the seizure of carfentanil in Suffolk County, marking its first known presence on Long Island. As a result:
– Warrants were issued for four suspected carfentanil distributors
– Three suspects have pleaded not guilty
– One suspect remains at large
Public Health Alert
Authorities have issued a public health alert for Long Island and Central New York State, where carfentanil was initially detected. The drug, known on the street as “Super Mario,” has raised significant concerns among health professionals and law enforcement officials.
Steve Chassman, executive director of the Long Island Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, stated, “The drug supply here on Long Island and across New York State is tainted with this extremely lethal drug.”
The Dangers of Carfentanil
Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond Tierney emphasized the extreme danger posed by carfentanil, especially for those who might unknowingly consume it:
“That substance is going to contain at least in part either fentanyl or carfentanil. So they’re turning certainly a disastrous decision into an almost assured deadly one.”
The risks are particularly high for individuals who may be experimenting with drugs or purchasing pills illicitly, as they may unknowingly ingest this lethal substance.
The Human Cost
The emergence of carfentanil adds another layer of tragedy to the ongoing opioid crisis. Carole Trottere of Old Field, who lost her son to an accidental fentanyl overdose, expressed her concerns about this new threat:
“Who are the people that are somewhere in a lab making this stuff? It’s money. It’s all about money. This is an entire generation of young people in their prime that we have lost.”
Community Response
In response to the growing crisis, a fentanyl crisis rally is scheduled to take place at Robert Moses State Park on Sunday. This event aims to raise awareness about the dangers of synthetic opioids and mobilize community support for prevention and treatment efforts.
Conclusion
The appearance of carfentanil on Long Island marks a dangerous escalation in the ongoing opioid crisis. Public health officials, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations are working together to address this new threat. However, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the risks associated with illicit drug use, especially given the presence of such potent and deadly substances in the drug supply.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please seek professional help immediately. The introduction of carfentanil into the local drug scene makes it more important than ever to prioritize addiction prevention, treatment, and support services in our communities.