Street drug forces state of emergency on Blood reserve

Street drug forces state of emergency on Blood reserve

The Blood Tribe called a state of emergency in early March in response to at least 10 deaths on the First Nation over the last six months. Deaths have been linked to the street drug Oxy 80, or fake Oxycodone. The pill contains fentanyl — a potent opioid -based pain killer that has a high risk of overdose. It’s believed organized crime groups are pushing Oxy 80 in the area. As a result, the Blood Tribe Police Service added a new Crime Reduction Unit with two dedicated officers. The BTPS also started an Oxy 80 tip line for citizens wanting to provide information. As a result, a number of charges have been laid since Christmas time. Chief Charles Weasel Head and council passed a resolution on March 6 declaring a local state of emergency to draw attention to the situation and bring more services and support to the community. Band†council discussed next steps with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency and the First Nations Inuit and Health Branch.