BRACEBRIDGE, ON – At least seven deaths in the last nine months could be related to opioid use says the Bracebridge OPP.
In a press release, the detachment is letting the public know that investigations into these sudden deaths are ongoing. The police are working with members of the Community Mental Health and Addictions Muskoka Parry Sound (CMHAMPS), Muskoka Paramedic Services and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.
All agencies are engaging with the public and providing opioid-related information and reminding drug users of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act. That legislation encourages anyone who sees a drug overdose happening to contact emergency services, even if the caller is using drugs themselves. Police will not charge those people with any drug-related crimes as the focus is on getting help to the overdose victim.
Naloxone kits and training on their use are being provided by the Public Health Unit. Such collaborative efforts are necessary to address the growing issue of opioid use in our communities and prevent further opioid-related deaths or overdoses from occurring.Â
Police are looking to lay murder charges against drug dealers who supply narcotics that result in the death of a user.
These investigations are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call Bracebridge OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your information online at www.crimestopperssdm.com. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display and you will remain anonymous. Being anonymous, you will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.
