DELAWARE, OH (WCMH) – President Trump has outlined his plan to combat the opioid crisis and he’s following Ohio’s lead. He is threatening “Major litigation” against drug companies who’ve played a role in the opioid crisis. His proposal includes the death penalty for high-volume traffickers. a law already on the books but never exercised.
The plan would also decrease demand by cutting the number of prescription painkillers by a third within three years and increase treatment options for those who are addicted.
Opioid use is at an all-time high as lawmakers scramble to get it under control. Samuel Patterson said he used to use.
“I used to live and I lived to use, it was a constant constant struggle,” said Patterson.
Patterson struggles are long behind him. He’s now mentoring opioid users sees others affected by this daily. The president’s stance on implementing the death penalty as part of punishing drug dealers doesn’t sit well with him.
“I don’t agree with it. I was never forced to use. No one ever said buy my drugs or I’m going to shoot you. So the death penalty, I think that’s a little harsh,” said Patterson.
Delaware County Prosecutor Carol ‘Brien wouldn’t say directly if she agreed or disagreed with president trumps stance using the death penalty for drug dealers. She waiting to see his exact plan.
“In terms of the drug dealing, president Trump said it best. These people are killing 2 to 3 thousand people at a time and they’re getting slaps on the wrist,” said O’Brien.
Margaret Finley at Eden counseling centers says the opioid battle is an ongoing one.
“This is not a new epidemic. I think because it has spread larger across our states and more folks are dying from it now it’s a national epidemic. It’s not new,” said Finley.