Perry County sheriff to talk about local heroin problem

Prescription drug abuse and heroin use have taken a heartbreaking toll on too many Americans and their families, while straining law enforcement, hospitals and treatment programs.

Perry County is no exception to this as "we have seen a substantial increase of arrests for heroin," reports Sheriff Steve Bareis. "Last quarter we had seven cases go to the Illinois Crime Lab, and in the same time frame, the Department of Human Services served 45 individuals from Perry County asking for help."

To help combat the prescription drug and heroin that is sweeping the country, the Perry County Sheriff's Office and the Perry County Anti-Drug Coalition will be hosting a community forum on Wednesday, October 5.

Former addict, Tim Ryan, will be the featured presenter who will chronicle his harrowing experience as a troubled addict who sold drugs to his own son and his son's friends, his incarceration and his life today that includes his own journey in recovery and his work in serving others.

The community is invited to a public forum at 7 p.m. in the Auditorium at Du Quoin High School. In addition to the public forum, Ryan will be speaking at assemblies at both Du Quoin High school and Pinckneyville High School during the day.

As a motivational speaker with a riveting message, Ryan not only reaches the addict in need, but also provides the community-at-large with valuable information about opiates and their devastating effects. Beyond just sharing his own journey, Ryan talks about the current landscape of heroin addiction in the Midwest, the surprising effects of heroin on the brain and body, and how to recognize and handle those who struggle with addiction to prescription drugs and other substances.

For more information about the event, please contact the Perry County Sheriff's Office at 618-357-5212.