SANFORD, Maine — The town of Sanford has witnessed three overdoses within a mere 24-hour span, according to reports last week from its police department.
While none of these overdoses were fatal, they shed light on a growing issue that has gripped the community.
This recent surge in overdoses is not an isolated incident for Sanford. Last July, the city experienced a similar spike, with nine overdoses occurring over just four days.
Such occurrences are alarming and demand immediate attention from authorities and the community alike.
Officer David Randt with the Sanford Police Department emphasized the importance of focusing on treatment rather than punitive measures, especially when mental health factors into the equation.
"Yes, what got us to that point was probably an illegal act but that's not what matters in that moment," Randt said.
In 2022, the Sanford Police Department initiated the OPTIONS (Overdose Prevention and Safety) program in collaboration with mental health clinician Lacey Bailey from the nonprofit organization Sweetser.
Bailey, who serves as the OPTIONS liaison, expressed her concern over the recent overdose surge.
"Not having as many at the end of this year [and] then all of a sudden we were slammed with several of them," Bailey said.
Police speculate that the sudden increase in overdoses could be linked to a potent batch of drugs circulating in the area.
Officer Randt highlighted the profit-driven motives behind the production and distribution of such substances, emphasizing the dangers faced by unsuspecting users.
Bailey urges individuals struggling with substance use disorder to seek help and access available resources.
She recommends carrying Narcan, an overdose-reversal drug, as a precautionary measure.
Speaking on the impact of Narcan, Bailey stated, "I couldn't say definitively that Narcan has contributed to having fewer overdose deaths this year, but I have to believe that Narcan is saving lives."
Despite the challenges posed by the recent surge in overdoses, the OPTIONS program continues to expand its reach.
They have added an OPTIONS liaison to the police department in South Berwick and are looking into adding a third liaison.