Dec. 15, 2022 4:30p
(WGTD)---Beginning next year, Kenosha overdose victims who are revived by paramedics can expect a follow-up.
The Kenosha Overdose Response Initiative is a partnership between Kenosha County Public Health, Kenosha Fire Department Emergency Medical Services and peer support specialists from Oakwood Clinical Associates.
Now in a pilot phase, the program is funded by a federal grant.
Once fully established, according to Public Health Department Director Jen Freiheit, the new team will meet overdose survivors where they are, offering support and guidance to meet their needs. The new service will also reach out to family and friends.
Freiheit says the goal with the initiative is to establish formal procedures to make sure that the people who need drug-related services the most are aware of what’s available.
Word of the new initiative comes in the wake of three overdose deaths last week alone in the city.
Meanwhile, nearly a dozen people have been named in criminal complaints that are tied to an alleged drug operation that was headquartered in rental property in Kenosha at 6106 11th Ave.
Police began watching the duplex after receiving a tip.
Officers followed three vehicles seen leaving the area.
One vehicle led police on a high –speed chase that ended in Pleasant Prairie with two arrests and the recovery of three-quart-sized bags of marijuana.
From another vehicle police recovered some 10 pounds of pot.
Additional drugs along with cash and guns were recovered from the vehicles, and a search of both apartments at the 11th Ave. address.
Four of those charged lived on the premises. All are in their mid to early 20’s.
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