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Post by Press Release on Dec 6, 2011 19:04:01 GMT -5
UNITE roundup seeks 12
WEST LIBERTY – A dozen individuals suspected of illegally selling prescription pills have been indicted by a Morgan County Grand Jury. Sealed indictments were released Tuesday, Dec. 6, following an undercover investigation by Operation UNITE into drug trafficking in Morgan County that began this past summer. At least several cases involved the individuals traveling out-of-state to obtain the pills, said Dan Smoot, deputy director of Operation UNITE. Most of the drugs were either Oxycodone or Hydrocodone pain medications. UNITE detectives, along with the Kentucky State Police and West Liberty Police Department, set out to serve the warrants Tuesday morning. By early afternoon six of the 12 had been arrested and lodged in the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center in Paintsville. Police were continuing their efforts to serve the remaining six warrants.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 8, 2011 19:19:50 GMT -5
Appalachia engages nation on Rx abuse
Citing the importance of a drug-free population to sustainable economic growth, the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has agreed to serve as Operation UNITE’s exclusive educational partner for the National Rx Drug Abuse Summit next spring. The Summit will take place April 10-12 in Florida, the heart of a prescription pill pipeline responsible for bringing approximately 60 percent of diverted drugs into the Central Appalachian region. The event will convene public and private stakeholders from across the country in sessions that highlight prevention, education, treatment and law enforcement efforts in addressing the prescription drug epidemic. “The abuse of prescription medications has a far reaching impact on Appalachia,” stated ARC Federal Co-Chair Earl F. Gohl. “It devastates families, creates burdens for communities, and undermines the employability of the workforce.” “ARC strongly supports Operation UNITE’s initiative to build interstate partnerships at the Summit, and supports the continuing education of medical professionals and community leaders engaged in the fight against drug abuse,” Gohl added. “Diversion of prescription medications from their legitimate medical uses has become an epidemic that requires a coordinated national effort,” said Karen Kelly, director of UNITE. “Attendees will have an opportunity to learn from state and national leaders, law enforcement officials, medical professionals, community advocates, treatment experts, educators, private industry leaders, and others who are finding success in battling this epidemic.” “In addition,” Kelly continued, “this Summit is intended to foster better understanding and cooperation between all groups – not just the medical community – and how that cooperation can lead to successful outcomes. The Summit will include discussion targeting issues faced by private sector employers.” Conference programming, guided by a 10-member National Advisory Board, will be responsive to the needs of educators, community advocates, private industry, civic leaders, law enforcement officials, treatment experts in addition to the broad range of health care providers who represent the entire continuum of care. UNITE has partnered with Inquisit, a division of Amerinet, to provide continuing education credits for a variety of professionals, including attorneys, counselors, social workers, physicians, physician assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners and pharmacists. “The impact of prescription drug abuse is devastating,” Kelly said. “The economic cost of drug trafficking and abuse is $215 billion in the United States every year. Insurance companies alone lose $72.5 billion per year because of diversion. But the worst part is that more than 27,000 people lose their lives to addiction annually.” “It is time to tackle this issue through a coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach,” Kelly continued. “Many of the nation’s foremost experts will be leading conversations during the Summit.” Forty-two percent of the ARC region’s population is rural, compared with 20 percent of the national population. Currently 22.8 percent of ARC counties are considered economically distressed. The ARC is a regional economic development agency that represents a partnership of federal, state and local government. ARC’s mission is to be a strategic partner and advocate for sustainable community and economic development in a 205,000-square mile area spanning 420 counties in 13 states. For more information about the Appalachian Regional Commission visit www.arc.gov. For more information about the Summit call 1-866-678-6483, visit www.NationalRxDrugAbuseSummit.org, or follow news about the event on Twitter using @rxsummit.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 12, 2011 17:51:24 GMT -5
Perry roundup targets 14
HAZARD – Arrest warrants for 14 individuals on 30 charges have been issued after an undercover investigation into the illegal sale of prescription medications in Perry County. Law enforcement officers from Operation UNITE, the Hazard Police Department, Kentucky State Police and Perry County Sheriff’s Office attempted to locate these suspects in a roundup conducted Monday, December 12. The arrests follow a six-month investigation conducted by UNITE, the Hazard Police Department and KSP into the trafficking of Oxycodone, Hydrocodone and Methadone. Several of those sought have previously been arrested by UNITE or other agencies on drug-related offenses. As of 2 p.m. Monday, 10 of the 14 suspects had been charged and lodged in the Kentucky River Regional Detention Center. Police are continuing their attempt to locate and arrest the remaining four suspects.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 13, 2011 20:18:25 GMT -5
NIDA director to be featured at Rx Summit
One of the nation’s foremost experts on the neurological effects of drug addiction will be a keynote presenter at the first National Rx Drug Abuse Summit next April. Dr. Nora D. Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health, has conducted extensive research that demonstrates drug addiction is a disease of the human brain – not merely a criminal problem caused by poor choices – and thus much more difficult to overcome. In 2007, Dr. Volkow was named to Time magazine’s list of the top 100 women and men “whose power, talent or moral example is transforming the world.” “We are excited that Dr. Volkow will share her expertise during the Summit,” said Karen Kelly, president/CEO of Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education), a Kentucky-based organization coordinating the event. “She is a highly-regarded professional whose work has engaged the entire health care system to seek appropriate responses and effective treatments for addiction.” The Summit, which will be held in Florida April 10-12, 2012, is intended to foster better understanding and cooperation between all groups – state and national leaders, law enforcement officials, medical professionals, community advocates, treatment experts, educators, private industry leaders, and others – who are finding success in battling this nationwide epidemic. “Diversion of prescription medications from their legitimate medical uses impacts every American, not only through the devastating personal toll exacted on individuals and their families, but on an economic level as well,” Kelly stated. “This Summit encourages proactive dialogue with national experts to identify data-driven policies and solutions.” As a research psychiatrist and scientist, Dr. Volkow pioneered the use of brain imaging to investigate the toxic effects of drugs and their addictive properties. Her studies have documented changes in the dopamine system affecting the actions of frontal brain regions involved with motivation, drive, and pleasure and the decline of brain dopamine function with age. Dr. Volkow received her medical degree from the National University of Mexico and spent most of her professional career at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) in Upton, New York, where she held several leadership positions including director of Nuclear Medicine, chairman of the Medical Department, and associate director for Life Sciences. She has served as NIDA’s director since 2003. For more information about the Summit call 1-866-678-6483, visit www.NationalRxDrugAbuseSummit.org, or follow news about the event on Twitter using @rxsummit.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 19, 2011 20:51:46 GMT -5
Diversion expert featured at Summit
The diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. One of the nation’s experts in preventing, detecting and investigating this diversion will be a keynote presenter at the first National Rx Drug Abuse Summit next April. Joseph T. Rannazzisi, deputy assistant administrator for the Office of Diversion Control in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), brings a unique perspective to the nation’s fight against substance abuse. “Mr. Rannazzisi’s experience with the DEA, combined with his background as a pharmacist and lawyer, provides a unique perspective on stopping illegal activity, while at the same time ensuring these drugs continue to be available for legitimate medical needs,†said Karen Kelly, president/CEO of Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education), a Kentucky-based organization coordinating the event. The Summit, which will be held in Florida April 10-12, 2012, is intended to foster better understanding and cooperation between all groups – state and national leaders, law enforcement officials, medical professionals, community advocates, treatment experts, educators, private industry leaders, and others – who are finding success in battling this nationwide epidemic. “Diversion of prescription medications from their legitimate medical uses impacts every American, not only through the devastating personal toll exacted on individuals and their families, but on an economic level as well,†Kelly stated. “This Summit encourages proactive dialogue with national experts to identify data-driven policies and solutions.†Rannazzisi is a 25-year career Special Agent who has held supervisory positions over areas such as clandestine labs, dangerous drugs and chemicals, enforcement, and division administration. He was appointed to his current position in 2006. He is responsible for overseeing and coordinating major pharmaceutical, precursor chemical, clandestine laboratory and synthetic drug investigations; the drafting and promulgating of regulations; establishing drug production quotas; and serves as liaison to the pharmaceutical industry, international governments, state governments, federal agencies and law enforcement agencies. Joining Rannazzisi as a keynote presenter during the Summit will be Dr. Nora D. Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health, one of the nation’s foremost experts on the neurological effects of drug addiction.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 23, 2011 10:20:46 GMT -5
KRP provides $100,000 for treatment Operation UNITE Press Release
HAZARD – Residents of four Southeastern Kentucky counties in need of substance abuse treatment continue to benefit from the philanthropy of Kentucky River Properties, LLC. Company officials provided the third annual $100,000 installment of a five-year pledge to the UNITE Foundation in a brief ceremony held Wednesday, Dec. 14, in Hazard. The funding is used to provide treatment vouchers to low-income residents of Perry, Knott, Leslie and Letcher counties. In addition, a portion of the money is used to support Drug Court programs in each of these counties. KRP President Fred N. Parker said the donation is in keeping with his company’s philosophy to provide as much support as possible to schools, families and organizations within their service region. In announcing the five-year, $500,000 pledge in January 2010, Parker noted his board of directors “felt this is one of the best investments we could make.” Over the past two years, 45 people from the four target counties have entered a treatment program using KRP’s funding, said Karen Kelly, UNITE’s director. For those who qualify, UNITE treatment vouchers pay up to $3,000 for short-term treatment (up to 89 days) or up to $5,000 for long-term treatment (90 days or more). “These are people who need – and want – treatment for their addiction but may not have the financial resources,” Kelly said. “Kentucky River Properties recognizes this need and has made a commitment to helping out.” With approximately 1,400 calls to UNITE’s treatment line (1-866-908-6483) each month, sometimes there is a waiting list for assistance. The funding from KRP virtually eliminates the wait for individuals in the four counties, Kelly added. Funds requested by the Drug Court programs are used to provide resources to help participants meet basic one-time needs. “The recovery process can be overwhelming,” Kelly noted. “Often this extra help makes the difference in whether or not an addict graduates and ultimately changes his or her lifestyle once and for all.” Kentucky River Properties is a land company formed in 2001 after a restructuring of its parent company, Kentucky River Coal Corporation.
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Post by Press Release on Dec 28, 2011 16:36:22 GMT -5
20 sought in Jackson County roundup Operation UNITE Press Release
McKEE – Indictment warrants have been issued for 20 individuals suspected of drug trafficking in Jackson County. Law enforcement officers from five agencies attempted to serve the warrants during a drug roundup conducted Wednesday, December 28. The charges followed an on-going undercover investigation by Operation UNITE that began in early 2011. A majority of the cases involved the illegal sale of Hydrocodone, Oxycodone and Suboxone. Assisting UNITE detectives with the roundup were law enforcement officers from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, McKee Police Department, Two Rivers Drug Task Force and Kentucky State Police. As of 2:30 p.m. officers had arrested 17 of the suspects and lodged them in the Jackson County Detention Center. They are: • Ricky Abner, 48, U.S. 421, Sand Gap, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Robert Adkins, 49, Adkinstown Road, McKee, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, third-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and persistent felony offender. In addition, Adkins was arrested by the Two Rivers Task Force after a large quantity of pills and cash were found at his residence during the roundup. • Danny Bowles, 33, Sand Gap, two counts second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Juanita Caldwell, 26, Jackson Valley Apartments, McKee, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school. • Georgia May Clemons, 55, Clemons Road, Sand Gap, four counts first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Chester Collett, 66, Doolittle Road, Annville, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Adam Shane Gabbard, 26, Farmer Cemetery Road, McKee, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Jeannie Johnson, 39, U.S. 421, McKee, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • William Kirby, 35, Kirby Road, Sand Gap, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Tommy Lakes, 23, Upper Dry Fork Road, Sand Gap, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Lana Mays, 21, Jackson Valley Apartments, McKee, two counts first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and two counts trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school. • Mark McGeorge, 35, Jackson Valley Apartments, McKee, two counts second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school. • Bradley Muncy, 32, Jackson Valley Apartments, McKee, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school. • Judy Robbins, 49, Roberts Court Apartments, McKee, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. • Jesse William Smith, 19, Jackson Valley Apartments, McKee, first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and trafficking in a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school. • Tammy Spurlock, 33, Brushy Ridge Road, McKee, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance and persistent felony offender. • Cloyd Young, 50, McKee, second-degree trafficking in a controlled substance. In addition, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office arrested Micky Doan of Annville on drug-trafficking charges. Law enforcement officers continue their search for the three remaining suspects.
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Post by Press Release on Jan 3, 2012 19:23:05 GMT -5
Drug roundup seeks 18 in Pike Operation UNITE Press Release
PIKEVILLE – Law enforcement officials attempted to arrest 18 Pike County individuals suspected of drug trafficking during a roundup conducted by Operation UNITE Tuesday, January 3. “This investigation centered on the Virgie and Regina communities but spread out across the county,” said Dan Smoot, deputy director of UNITE, adding the undercover operation lasted about 9 months. “We bought a little bit of everything – from powder and crack cocaine to Suboxone and a variety prescription pills in between,” Smoot continued. “Pike County has a huge prescription drug problem, but cocaine is still a very desired drug.” Assisting UNITE detectives with the arrests were troopers from Kentucky State Police Post 9 and agents from the London DEA field office. As of 3 p.m. Tuesday 10 of the 18 individuals had been arrested and lodged in the Pike County Detention Center. Police continue to search for the remaining eight suspects.
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Post by Press Release on Jan 9, 2012 20:17:11 GMT -5
Nation’s top drug official to speak at Rx Summit Operation UNITE Press Release
The nation’s top official in the war on drugs will be a keynote presenter at the first National Rx Drug Abuse Summit next April. R. Gil Kerlikowske, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), has identified prescription drug abuse as a top priority for public health in the United States. “Mr. Kerlikowske is very aware of the devastating impacts of prescription drug abuse and diversion,” said Karen Kelly, president/CEO of Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education), a Kentucky-based organization coordinating the event. “The Prevention Plan unveiled last year by the ONDCP recognizes the need to take a balanced approach between education, monitoring, proper disposal and enforcement efforts.” The Summit, which will be held in Florida April 10-12, 2012, is intended to foster better understanding and cooperation between all groups – state and national leaders, law enforcement officials, medical professionals, community advocates, treatment experts, educators, private industry leaders, and others – who are finding success in battling this nationwide epidemic. “Diversion of prescription medications from their legitimate medical uses impacts every American, not only through the devastating personal toll exacted on individuals and their families, but on an economic level as well,” Kelly stated. “This Summit encourages proactive dialogue with national experts to identify data-driven policies and solutions.” Prior to his confirmation, Kerlikowske served as deputy director for the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, and was police commissioner of Buffalo, New York. Most of his law enforcement career was served in the St. Petersburg Police Department in Florida. He was twice elected to be president of the Major Cities Chiefs, which is comprised of the largest city and county law enforcement agencies in the United States and Canada, and was also elected president of the Police Executive Research Forum. In 2011, Kerlikowske received the American Medical Association’s Dr. Nathan Davis Award for Outstanding Government Service. Joining Kerlikowske as a keynote presenter during the Summit will be: • Dr. Nora D. Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health, one of the nation’s foremost experts on the neurological effects of drug addiction. • Hon. Joseph T. Rannazzisi, deputy assistant administrator for the Office of Diversion Control in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), an expert in preventing, detecting and investigating the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals.
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Post by Press Release on Jan 16, 2012 14:08:21 GMT -5
Surgeon General to speak at Rx Summit Prescription drug abuse is a growing public health concern. Operation UNITE Press Release
U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Regina M. Benjamin will address the need for major public health initiatives across many fields during the first National Rx Drug Abuse Summit in April. “The negative impacts of substance abuse span a broad spectrum, including health care costs, public safety, economic development and social services. As ‘America’s Doctor,’ Dr. Benjamin is on the front-line of responding to this crisis,” said Karen Kelly, president/CEO of Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education), a Kentucky-based organization coordinating the event. The Summit, which will be held in Florida April 10-12, 2012, is intended to foster better understanding and cooperation between a broad range of stakeholders – state and national leaders, law enforcement officials, medical professionals, community advocates, treatment experts, educators, private industry leaders, and others – who are finding success in battling this nationwide epidemic. The National Prevention Strategy recognizes that good health comes not just from receiving quality medical care, but also from healthy homes, safe outdoor spaces, safe worksites, proper nutrition and physical activity. “Every American family is impacted by prescription medication misuse and diversion. Our youth are especially vulnerable,” Kelly noted. “Dr. Benjamin, who is tasked with implementing prevention strategies, brings an expertise to the Summit that will help identify data-driven policies and solutions.” Dr. Benjamin, the 18th Surgeon General of the United States, provides the public with the best scientific information available on how to improve their health and the health of the nation. She also oversees the operational command of 6,500 uniformed health officers who serve in locations around the world to promote and protect the health of the American people. Dr. Benjamin is founder and former CEO of the Bayou La Batre Rural Health Clinic in Alabama, former associate dean for rural health at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile, and past chair of the Federation of State Medical Boards of the United States. She is a member of the National Academy of Science’s Institute of Medicine, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. She was a Kellogg National Fellow and a Rockefeller Next Generation Leader. Dr. Benjamin has a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Xavier University, New Orleans; attended Morehouse School of Medicine; received her M.D. from the University of Alabama, Birmingham; and has an MBA from Tulane University. She has 15 honorary doctorates. Joining Dr. Benjamin as a keynote presenter during the Summit will be: • Dr. Nora D. Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health, one of the nation’s foremost experts on the neurological effects of drug addiction. • R. Gil Kerlikowske, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), who has identified prescription drug abuse as a top priority for public health in the United States. • Hon. Joseph T. Rannazzisi, deputy assistant administrator for the Office of Diversion Control in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), an expert in preventing, detecting and investigating the diversion of controlled pharmaceuticals.
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Post by Press Release on Jan 23, 2012 21:18:55 GMT -5
Rock pushing prescription for meth drug Operation UNITE Press Release
MT. VERNON – With methamphetamine labs continuing to be discovered at record numbers, members of the Rockcastle County UNITE Coalition have embarked on an educational campaign in support of state legislation to curb the one must-have ingredient – pseudoephedrine. Coalition leaders have launched a petition drive and will air a public service presentation on the local access TV channel during the next two weeks. Nearly identical bills – SB-50 and HB-79 – are currently making their way through the state Senate and House chambers to require a prescription for most products containing pseudoephedrine – an ingredient in some cold and allergy medications. A prescription would not be required for gel-cap versions of the medication under the proposed legislation, which impacts only 15 of the 152 options available to treat cold and allergy symptoms. Meth lab response incidents across Kentucky were at an all-time record level of 1,171 in 2011, an increase of 8.4 percent over the previous year, with final statistics still being compiled by the Kentucky State Police. Some legislators have called this crisis one of the “most important” of the 2012 General Assembly session because of its cost – not only in terms of the danger to children and others, but to the negative environmental and social impacts of meth labs. A video produced by Jerry Burke explaining the problem using segments from an ABC News Nightline presentation filmed in Kentucky and the statewide “So Much Meth” campaign will be shown at 7 p.m. each Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and 10 a.m. Saturday, on Newwave Channel 3 for the next two weeks. A petition urging lawmakers to “return pseudoephedrine to a prescription drug” is currently being circulated throughout Rockcastle County. Citizens can obtain petitions at: • Brodhead Elementary (see the UNITE Club advisor) • Roundstone Elementary (see the UNITE Club advisor) • Mt. Vernon Elementary (see the UNITE Club advisor) • Rockcastle County Middle (see the UNITE Club advisor) • Rockcastle County High (see the UNITE Club advisor) • Mt. Vernon City Hall • Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Office • Rockcastle County Courthouse
Those unable to sign a petition are urged to leave a message for their representatives and committee members on the toll-free Legislative Message Line: 1-800-372-7181. Rockcastle is represented by Rep. Danny Ford and Sen. Jared K. Carpenter. SB-50 is sponsored by senators Tom Jensen, Ray S. Jones II, Joey Pendleton, Robert Stivers II and Johnny Ray Turner. HB-79 is sponsored by representatives Linda Belcher, Johnny Bell and Mary Lou Marzian. Both bills are before the Judiciary Committees of their respective chambers and have been the subject of hearings where experts have touted the effectiveness of requiring a prescription for pseudoephedrine as a means to greatly reduce the number of dangerous methamphetamine labs. Testimony included comments from officials in Mississippi and Oklahoma explaining why a prescription requirement is more effective than electronic sales tracking systems in stopping the proliferation of meth labs. Senate Judiciary Committee members are: Jensen, Jones, Stivers, Katie Kratz Stine, Perry B. Clark, Carroll Gibson, Jerry P. Rhoads, John Schickel, Dan “Malano” Seum, Brandon Smith and Robin L. Webb. House Judiciary Committee members are: Bell, Marzian, John Tilley, Joseph M. Fischer, Sara Beth Gregory, Darryl T. Owens, Brent Yonts, Jesse Crenshaw, Kelly Flood, Jeff Hoover, Joni L. Jenkins, Thomas Kerr, Stan Lee,, Michael J. Nemes, Tom Riner and Steven Rudy. Additional testimony is expected before lawmakers vote on the issue. The Senate Judiciary Committee meets regularly at 10 a.m. on Thursdays while the House Judiciary Committee meets regularly at noon on Wednesdays.
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Post by Press Release on Feb 1, 2012 21:10:18 GMT -5
19 sought in Lee County undercover drug investigation Roundup Operation UNITE Press Release
BEATTYVILLE – A two-square-mile section of eastern Lee County was the target of an undercover drug investigation that led to 19 indictments. Operation UNITE detectives, working closely with Lee Sheriff Wendell Childers, identified the high concentration of dealers in an area near the Breathitt County line. “Sheriff Childers has been with UNITE on every case during the past eight months,” said Dan Smoot, deputy director of UNITE. “He is very concerned about the illegal drug trafficking taking place in his county and has facilitated our investigation.” All but two of the cases involved the illegal sales of Percocet pills obtained from Florida, Smoot said, adding the other case involved the sale of Hydrocodone. On Wednesday, February 1, law enforcement officers from UNITE, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, Beattyville Police Department, Kentucky State Police and the U.S. Marshal’s office set out to serve the arrest warrants. As of 2:30 p.m. Wednesday 13 of the suspects had been charged. All but one person, who was served at the Perry County Detention Center, were taken to Three Forks Regional Jail after their arrest. Police continue to search for the remaining six suspects.
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Post by Kentucky News on Feb 6, 2012 21:51:53 GMT -5
Education, Interstate Cooperation Efforts Continue Commonwealth News Center press release
Last fall, Gov. Beshear announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded a $60,000 grant to Operation UNITE, a regional anti-drug initiative in 29 southern and eastern Kentucky counties. The ARC has directed the grant be used to support several educational summits across the state for physicians and dispensers. Gov. Beshear and Attorney General Conway will coordinate the summits that will be held in three locations across the state in the coming months. Operation UNITE, a state drug initiative, expects these summits will train approximately 1,000 health care providers. Kentucky also hosted the first meeting of a new Interstate Prescription Drug Abuse Task Force this summer. The task force is composed of representatives from Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia and Tennessee and includes representatives from government, law enforcement, health care, and advocacy groups. The group is developing ways states can work together to choke off the so-called "pill pipeline" of illegal prescription drugs streaming into those states from the south.
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Post by Press Release on Feb 29, 2012 18:10:45 GMT -5
U.S. Representatives to participate in Rx Summit Operation UNITE Press Release
Four members of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse are participating in a forum hosted by Operation UNITE during the National Rx Drug Abuse Summit in April. Those members participating in the forum are: • Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, R-California 45th District, founder and co-chair of the Caucus and chairwoman for the House Subcommittee on Energy and Commerce. • Congressman Jack Kingston, R-Georgia 1st District, Caucus member and a House Appropriations Subcommittee chairman. • Congressman Nick J. Rahall II, D-West Virginia 3rd District, Caucus member and ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and chair of the House Natural Resources Committee. • Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers, R-Kentucky 5th District, founder and co-chair of the Caucus and chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. The forum will be moderated by Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, who has led the fight in Florida against prescription pill diversion since taking office in January 2011. These four members have led the fight for curbing the nation’s prescription drug abuse epidemic as it is now classified by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The members will, among other topics, discuss three bills that have been introduced by members of the Caucus related to prescription drug abuse: HR 1065, the Pill Mill Crackdown Act; HR 1925, the Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act; and HR 2110, the Ryan Creedon Act. Following these presentations there will be a question-and-answer session to hear concerns and comments from those impacting the issue on the front lines. “We certainly appreciate the efforts of these members of Congress and their staff’s for leading the fight against prescription drug abuse,” said Karen Kelly, CEO of Operation UNITE, host of the Summit. “Each of these members have been speaking out on this issue for years and fighting this terrible epidemic that is destroying our families, schools and communities.” The bi-partisan Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse was established in 2010 to raise awareness of abuse and to work toward innovative and effective policy solutions, incorporating treatment, prevention, law enforcement and research. Caucus members collaborate to gather relevant information from stakeholders involved in prescription drug abuse initiatives and disseminate their findings and recommendations to fellow Congressional members. The Summit, which will be held in Florida April 10-12, 2012, is intended to foster better understanding and cooperation between all groups – state and national leaders, law enforcement officials, medical professionals, community advocates, treatment experts, educators, private industry leaders, and others – who are finding success in battling this nationwide epidemic.
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Post by Press Release on Mar 5, 2012 14:05:13 GMT -5
Operation UNITE is assisting emergency management officials in counties hit by the March 2 tornadoes Operation UNITE Press Release
Currently the greatest needs are for supplies in Menifee and Lawrence counties. This is an immediate need. Supplies Needed: Non-perishable food, cleaning supplies, socks, garbage bags, diapers, wipes, Germ-X, shampoo, deodorant, paper products, rubber storage containers, hammers, nails, shovels, mops, brooms, small hand tools, gloves and boxes. Supplies for communities can be dropped off at any of the UNITE offices, or we can put donors in touch with community members from those areas that have been hit. Calls regarding relief supplies should be directed to Koula at 606-330-1400 or koakley@centertech.com
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Post by Press Release on Mar 8, 2012 16:47:56 GMT -5
Rogers pushes for legislative solutions to Rx drug abuse Operation UNITE Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) participated in two congressional hearings on March 7 where he expressed continued concerns about the epidemic of prescription drug abuse and pushed for timely and effective legislative solutions. Before the House Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security, Rogers discussed his perspective on this severe issue as well as the importance of additional congressional engagement in tackling this problem through legislation. Through his role as Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, Rogers also encouraged U.S. Army Secretary John McHugh to continue efforts which reduce addiction and abuse among our brave war fighters. “Prescription drug abuse is taking more lives in Kentucky than car crashes, and more lives around the country than heroin and cocaine combined. And tragically, our brave military men and women are coming back from war hooked on these pain pills,” stated Rogers, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse. “In my region of Southern and Eastern Kentucky, our people have taken a stand that enough is enough; it’s time for our federal government to follow suit,” Rogers continued. “I was proud to first stand by my colleagues in calling for meaningful legislation to stem the rising tide of abuse and allow our communities once again to flourish, and then to get the assurances of my good friend Secretary McHugh that the Army is taking this epidemic seriously to protect our brave war fighters.” Rogers and three other members of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse testified before the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security at a hearing entitled “The Prescription Drug Epidemic in America.” While prescription drug abuse has presented a challenge in Southern and Eastern Kentucky for years, it is now our nation’s fastest growing drug threat. In 2010, 254 million prescriptions for opioids were filled in the U.S., which is enough painkillers to medicate every American adult around the clock for a month. Rogers encouraged his colleagues on the subcommittee to address a number of legislative proposals which have been put forth by members of the Prescription Drug Abuse Caucus, including forthcoming legislation to facilitate the secure exchange of prescription information among state-run prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMP). For years, Rogers has been a strong advocate for the establishment of PDMPs in every state, which monitor the sale and purchases of controlled substances, bridging the gap between legitimate medical need and potential misuse. In recent months, he has pushed for technology solutions that will combat interstate doctor shopping and shut down the pill pipeline across state borders. Later in the day, Rogers engaged the Secretary of the Army John McHugh on prescription drug abuse by our war fighters. Studies indicate that 21 percent of soldiers involved in illegal drug use in 2011 were abusing prescription drugs, and tragically, between 2009 and 2011, 142 soldiers lost their lives to prescription drug abuse. Rogers has repeatedly encouraged the Department of Defense (DOD) to address this escalating crisis of addiction and abuse, and in February 2012, the DOD announced plans to expand existing drug testing programs to include the unauthorized use of the prescription drugs hydrocodone and benzodiazepines. In addition, Rogers authored language included in the FY12 Appropriations bill that will allow the Department of Veterans Affairs to participate in state-run prescription drug monitoring programs. President Obama signed this bill into law last December.
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Post by Press Release on Mar 21, 2012 16:41:13 GMT -5
Meth lab discoveries result in five arrests Operation UNITE Press Release
Eight separate methamphetamine lab incidents in two Southeastern Kentucky counties within a 52-hour period resulted in the arrest of five people. Each of these meth labs were cleaned up by detectives from Operation UNITE. The flurry of activity began about 8 p.m. Sunday, March 18, in Rockcastle County when sheriff’s deputies discovered an active lab at the home of 44-year-old Stevie Sthingyamore on Brindle Ridge Road in the Brodhead community. Sthingyamore and 30-year-old Michael Hopkins of Lancaster were each charged with manufacturing methamphetamine by the Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Office. On Monday, the Monticello Police Department was investigating a report of a man passed out at a home on Ridgewood Avenue about 10 a.m. and discovered he had two active one-step meth labs in his jacket pockets. The chemical reaction occurring inside one of these containers caused a brief fire as detectives were attempting to neutralize the lab. Baron Alexander, 41, of Cave City, was charged with manufacturing methamphetamine along with several outstanding arrest warrants. Four separate instances of inactive meth labs being found along highways in Wayne County were also handled Monday. An inactive lab was found along a roadway in Rockcastle County on Tuesday. Late Tuesday evening, Monticello Police received information on the possible location of two suspects wanted on manufacturing methamphetamine indictment warrants obtained by UNITE about two months ago. When the city officers and deputies from the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office arrived at a home on North Second Street they discovered 39-year-old Angela Wallace and 35-year-old Joseph Wallace hiding in a closet and spotted materials used to manufacture meth. After obtaining a search warrant, they located an active one-step meth lab and three other active “smokers” used in the manufacturing process. The Wallaces, of Monticello, were served with the indictment warrants and were additionally charged with manufacturing methamphetamine by the Monticello Police Department. Additional charges on the couple are pending.
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Post by Press Release on May 23, 2012 6:49:38 GMT -5
Florida-Kentucky pill ring busted Operation UNITE Press Release
PIKEVILLE – Two traffickers of prescription pain pills and their Florida supplier have been arrested on federal drug charges following an undercover investigation by Operation UNITE and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. “More than 200,000 Oxycodone pills were sold in Pike County over the past 12 months by these individuals,” said Keith Napier, Big Sandy Task Force Manager for UNITE. “They were getting pills delivered on almost a monthly basis.” “This is an unusual case not only due to the quantity of controlled substances involved, but the fact that Florida residents were delivering to Kentucky,” noted Dan Smoot, deputy director of UNITE . “We know that there are thousands of Eastern Kentucky residents going to Florida to purchase prescription pills, but in this investigation Florida was bringing the drugs to us.” With a street value of approximately $40 per pill, the trafficking operation is estimated to have resulted in $8 million in illegal sales in the past year. Earlier this month DEA agents arrested 32-year-old Jerrmaine St. Claire Littles of Clearwater, Florida, on a charge of conspiracy to distribute Oxycodone. He is currently being detained by federal officials in Florida. The two Pike County distributors – 53-year-old Kenneth Gannon of Aflex Road in Aflex and 42-year-old Russell West of Six Camp Road in McVeigh – were picked up Tuesday, May 22 at their homes, by UNITE detectives, DEA agents from the London Field Office, and Kentucky State Police troopers from Post 9 in Pikeville. Both were charged with conspiracy to distribute Oxycodone. “Both UNITE and the DEA had received numerous anonymous tips from citizens alerting us to the illegal drug trafficking activity in the Belfry area,” Smoot stated. As a result of the tips, police initiated a joint investigation that resulted in undercover drug buys and several search warrants during the last six months. More than 1,000 pills and “thousands of dollars” in cash were seized. Both Gannon and West were lodged in the Pike County Detention Center. “The DEA’s commitment to East Kentucky has made it possible to identify not only the street dealers but also the mid and upper level suppliers,” Smoot said. “We hope this continued partnership will result in many more investigations of this type.”
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Post by Press Release on May 23, 2012 16:15:51 GMT -5
UNITE Service Corps awarded Governor’s Citation Operation UNITE Press Release
Operation UNITE’s Service Corps program received recognition for its excellent leadership and service during its end-of-year celebration held May 23. “Because of your demonstration of integrity and ability, meriting our great trust and respect, we are most pleased to award (UNITE) this Governor’s Citation in sincere appreciation of your outstanding services to the Commonwealth of Kentucky and its citizens,” stated the citation, signed by Gov. Steve Beshear and Audrey Tayse Haynes, secretary of the Kentucky Cabinet of Health and Family Services. Making the presentation was Eileen Cackowski, executive director of the Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service (KCCVS) in the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. “You have the trust of the commonwealth,” Cackowski said. “You have proven yourself to be so incredibly good.” This is the second time in as many years that UNITE received this recognition – “a walk on water” accomplishment, Cackowski proclaimed, noting a recipient must be nominated based upon outstanding volunteer service to communities. “UNITE has always done a tremendous job,” Cackowski said. “These UNITE members have a difficult task (because of home situations and the impact of drugs). I just think this program has done an incredible job.” “The credit of getting the governor’s citation has to go to our members. They are the ones in the schools and who are making the difference,” said Eugene Newsome, coordinator of the UNITE Service Corps. “I am very proud of what they have done.” “You may not realize it, but the best part of the kids’ day is the time they get to spend with you,” Phillip Birchfield, principal of Mullins Elementary, told the AmeriCorps members during his keynote presentation. “In your job you don’t always get to see the end result, but you are making an impact.” Birchfield, who oversees the second largest school in Pike County, noted that a vast majority of students come from economically disadvantaged or drug-impacted homes – two students had parents who died from substance abuse this past year. Despite these obstacles, “never feel sorry for them,” Birchfield stressed. “Build that relationship … with that child (and) educate them so they see a better life. That’s what you’re all about.” UNITE employed 28 full-time AmeriCorps members as part of its UNITE Service Corps initiative during the 2011-12 school year. These members taught the “Too Good for Drugs” and “Take 10” health curriculum, tutored students in mathematics, and helped establish or coordinate existing anti-drug UNITE Clubs at 35 elementary schools in 11 Eastern Kentucky counties. In addition, they provide hundreds of hours of community service. This school year took the community service component to a new level, as members actively assisted emergency management officials in relief efforts following the March 2 tornado outbreak. “Community service is an important part of the Service Corps philosophy, but the night the tornado hit our members were calling me at home to find out what they could do to help,” Newsome commented. “We had members who were in search and rescue in Johnson and Magoffin counties, members that staffed the shelters, members who were assisting in food and clothing distribution, and some members who spent days assisting the National Guard loading and unloading supplies.” “It was amazing to see how they responded to help the communities that were hit,” Newsome added. “They stepped outside the scope of their traditional AmeriCorps duties.” Special guests attending the celebration luncheon, held at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg, were KCCVS Program Officer Andrea Sieloff, KCCVS Disabilities Coordinator Lanny Taulbee, KCCVS Administrative Assistant Linda Harney, and Pike County Safe and Drug Free Schools Director Marionette Little. This was the fourth year Operation UNITE has received funding for the initiative through a grant awarded by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCP). The CNCP improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. As the nation’s largest grant maker in support of service and volunteering, CNCS engages more than five million Americans of all ages and backgrounds in service to their communities each year. In exchange for a year of full-time service, members earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award that can be used to pay for college or graduate school, or to pay back qualified student loans.
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Post by Press Release on Jun 9, 2012 7:12:00 GMT -5
Jackson County drug roundup Operation UNITE Press Release
McKEE – Several law enforcement agencies joined forces to make arrests of individuals wanted on drug-related charges during a roundup conducted in Jackson County on Friday, June 8. Participating in the arrests were members of Operation UNITE, the Two Rivers Drug Task Force, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Kentucky State Police. Operation UNITE began investigating reports of suspected illegal drug trafficking in December 2011. Indictment warrants for 19 people were returned by a Jackson County Grand Jury this week. Most of the UNITE cases involved the sale of three drugs – Oxycodone, Suboxone and Hydrocodone – during the undercover operation. In addition to the UNITE cases, 13 people were sought on warrants obtained from investigations by other agencies. As of 2 pm Friday, 20 of the 32 people wanted by law enforcement had been arrested. Officers were continuing their efforts to locate the other individuals. Those arrested were lodged in the Jackson County Detention Center. For a list of those arrested: operationunite.org/2012/06/jackson-county-drug-roundup
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Post by Press Release on Jun 9, 2012 7:28:55 GMT -5
Anthem promotes health lifestyle as SHND sponsor Operation UNITE Press Release
Staying fit and avoiding unhealthy lifestyle choices – such as using alcohol and other drugs – is part of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Kentucky’s wellness philosophy. To help promote healthy behaviors, Anthem has signed on as a major sponsor for Operation UNITE’s 2012 Shoot Hoops Not Drugs basketball camps. Shoot Hoops Not Drugs camps provide basketball skills instruction in conjunction with anti-drug and self-esteem messages. In addition, parents and guardians have an opportunity to attend an education program on how to talk to their children about drugs. “For nearly 75 years, Anthem has served every corner of the state of Kentucky, and so we are keenly aware of the problems stemming from the abuse of prescription drugs in our state,” said Deb Moessner, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Kentucky. “As the leading health insurer in Kentucky, we feel a responsibility to improve the health of our communities. We’re happy to sponsor these basketball camps not only to call attention to the problem, but also to provide a positive environment for kids that encourages healthy lifestyles.” This summer’s five free regional camps, conducted by former University of Kentucky basketball all-star Jeff Sheppard, began June 5, in Morehead and June 7 in Manchester. The remaining camps are scheduled for Martin County (June 18), Whitley County (June 19) and Magoffin County (June 21). “We are so pleased to have Anthem as a sponsor because it emphasizes the importance of making healthy choices from a young age,” said Karen Kelley, director of UNITE. “Kentucky’s rate of illicit prescription drug use among high school youth was 17 percent higher than the national rate, according to the latest Prescription Drug Trends in Kentucky report.” “The result of this high rate of drug use has a corresponding increase in the number of treatment admissions and drug overdose deaths,” Kelly added. “We need to provide opportunities to encourage wellness and give out youth alternatives to drug experimentation.” All youth participants receive a free event T-shirt, regulation basketball, food and water, and be entered into a drawing for two portable basketball goals given away at the conclusion of each camp (must be present to win). Presented by Phoenix Products, Shoot Hoops Not Drugs camps are fun, interactive, and provide a safe, drug-free activity where children have an opportunity to interact with positive role models while learning fundamental basketball skills. Other major sponsors include Codell Construction, Lightyear Network Solutions, Senture, State Senator Robert Stivers, Walmart of Eastern Kentucky and WestCare. Silver sponsors are Dollar Mania (Manchester), First National Bank of Manchester, and J. Shelby Inc. (Clay Circuit Court Clerk James Phillips). Teddy G. Woods, CPA, of Manchester is a Bronze sponsor. Since 2006, UNITE has conducted 38 regional camps with 5,055 youth participants representing 53 Kentucky counties, 11 other states and one other country.
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Post by Press Release on Jul 8, 2012 7:02:50 GMT -5
Karen Kelly
Efforts designed to counter the state’s substance abuse problems Operation UNITE Press Release
STEARNS – “The laws that you passed will save lives,” Karen Kelly, director of Operation UNITE, told members of the Kentucky General Assembly’s Interim Joint Committee on Judiciary meeting Friday morning in McCreary County. Kelly was one of several people to address House and Senate members on current efforts designed to counter the state’s substance abuse problems – including overdose deaths, prescription drug abuse and diversion, and methamphetamine. “(Substance abuse) is everybody’s responsibility,” Kelly emphasized as she outlined ongoing investigation, treatment and education initiatives offered by UNITE. “We see a lot of enabling. We’re just trying to intervene early and often.” The public fact-finding session was held before approximately 75 citizens and local officials in the auditorium of McCreary Central High School Friday, July 6. The joint committee is co-chaired by Sen. Tom Jensen of London (R-21st) and Rep. John Tilley of Hopkinsville (D-8th). Fifteen of the committee’s 28 members attended the two-hour program. In addition to Jensen and Tilly, those present were: Rep. Sara Beth Gregory of Monticello (R-52nd), Rep. Joni L. Jenkins of Shivley (D-44th), Sen. Ray S. Jones II of Pikeville (D-31st), Rep. Thomas Kerr of Taylor Mill (R-64th), Rep. Mary Lou Marzian of Louisville (D-34th), Rep. Michael J. Nemes of Louisville (R-38th), Rep. Darryl T. Owens of Louisville (D-43rd), Rep. Tom Riner of Louisville (D-41st), Sen. John Schickel of Union (R-11th), Sen. Dan “Malano” Seum of Fairdale (R-38th), Sen. Brandon Smith of Hazard (R-30th), Sen. Robin L. Webb of Grayson (D-18th), and Rep. Brent Yonts of Greenville (D-15th). “This is not something that is going to get any better for a while,” stated Sen. Webb, adding she appreciated efforts by groups who are trying to make a difference. Many comments emphasized how substance abuse takes a personal toll on families and communities. “All of my statistics have names,” stated Whitley County Coroner Andy Croley, who has been tracking drug overdose deaths for several years. He cited the example of 13-year-old Christopher Mark Fuson, whose January 2012 death was ruled acute combined drug toxicity, with four different drugs in his system. Many of these accidental deaths are attributable to an easy access to prescription medications. Whitley County experienced 51 confirmed drug-related deaths in 2011, and there have already been 23 as of June 25, with 13 cases pending test results, Croley stated, adding that “prescription drug abuse is the nation’s fastest-growing problem.” A provision in House Bill 1, which takes effect July 20, directs coroners to test for controlled substances when appropriate and report drug overdose deaths to the State Registrar of Vital Statistics and the Kentucky State Police, said Joe Williams, executive director of Appalachia HIDTA. These findings are required to be made public. “Eighty-two people die of drug-related overdoses in Kentucky every month,” said Williams, who retired from the KSP last year. “We think (the number of drug-related deaths) is very under reported.” Other key requirements of HB-1 include: • Requiring doctors and nurses to check the KASPER (Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting) system before dispensing certain scheduled drugs and authorizing greater access to the information. • Mandating that “pain management facilities” be owned by a physician holding an active Kentucky medical license. • Authorizing the KSP, Office of the Attorney General, Cabinet for Health and Family Services, and Licensing Boards to share reports of improper prescribing. “We were compelled to act” on this issue, which has been labeled a nationwide “epidemic” by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stated Rep. Tilley. “I think we came out with a good bill” that addresses major concerns on both sides of the issue. Currently only about 28 percent of doctors use the KASPER monitoring program, which has been used as a national model, Tilley stated. Of those who do utilize the information, 9 out of 10 “say it works.” Another new bill – House Bill 3 – discussed Friday sets tougher restrictions on the sale of pseudoephedrine products – the key ingredient in manufacturing methamphetamine. Despite previous legislative efforts, meth lab incidents continue to increase across Kentucky, Williams stated, adding police are only locating “a small percentage” of these labs. McCreary and its four surrounding counties (Laurel, Pulaski, Wayne and Whitley) accounted for approximately 20 percent of the state’s meth lab incidents in 2010 and 2011. The new law, lowers the amount of pseudoephedrine that may be purchased each month from 9 grams to 7.2 grams, with a 24 grams per year limit – down from 108 grams. Gel caps and liquid pseudoephedrine products are not affected and higher doses may be purchased with a doctor’s prescription. “I appreciate all the work that you do” to stop the spread of meth, said Rep. Gregory. “So often I think people can deceive themselves because no one in their family are meth users.” During the presentation, Kelly showed photos of a house in McCreary County that will have to be demolished because 58 meth labs and 36 HCL generators were discovered last month when family members went to get items following the homeowner’s death. Even if you don’t use or make methamphetamine you can be affected, Kelly said. Sgt. Mark Burden of the Kentucky State Police discussed provisions of House Bill 481, which prohibits trafficking in or possession of synthetic drugs such as “bath salts.” These synthetic drugs contain amphetamaine-like chemicals and have emerged over the past year as a new way to get high. Marketed under enticing names and sold online or in stores, they are increasingly being blamed for a number of emergency room visits. Long-term effects of taking synthetic drugs are still unknown, but short-term effects include fast heart rate, high blood pressure, hallucinations, seizures and rapid mood swings, among others. The bill carried an emergency clause enabling it to become effective upon the governor’s signature on April 11.
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Post by Press Release on Aug 9, 2012 20:05:25 GMT -5
Founder of Christian Appalachian Project remembered Operation UNITE Press Release
We have lost a dear friend of southern and eastern Kentucky. The Rev. Ralph William Beiting, a Catholic priest who spent the past 62 years serving the needs of the poor, passed away Thursday in Ashland. He founded the interdenominational Christian Appalachian Project in 1962, and a decade later the Father Beiting Appalachian Mission in Louisa that provides food, clothing and household supplies throughout the region. When Operation UNITE was formed in 2003, Fr. Beiting was one of the original board members and served as an active voice for citizens of Appalachian until 2006. His heart was dedicated to helping others and forging strong partnerships that crossed ecumenical lines. Fr. Beiting understood that the growing problem of prescription drug abuse threatened an already depressed area, and took every opportunity to provide help and hope to those in need – both spiritually and physically. “We have to be an answer to Appalachia,” Fr. Beiting said in 2009, while celebrating his 60th year as a priest. “We can never let the poor go untended.” Fr. Beiting, you have made a tremendous impact on our region. Your legacy will continue. God bless you!
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Post by Press Release on Aug 10, 2012 20:09:20 GMT -5
Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Insurance (KEMI) President/CEO Roger Fries, presents one of 500 medication lockboxes to U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers and UNITE Director Karen Kelly on August 8. KEMI is donating the boxes for UNITE’s educational campaign to encourage safe storage of over-the-counter and prescription medicines.
KEMI partners with UNITE Operation UNITE Press Release
Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Insurance (KEMI) has partnered with Operation UNITE to help educate the public on the need to safeguard medications in the home. “As Kentucky’s largest provider of workers’ compensation insurance with more than 21,000 policyholders throughout the state, KEMI is on the front lines of the battle against prescription drug abuse,” said Roger Fries, president and CEO. KEMI officials delivered 500 medication lockboxes to UNITE on August 8. The boxes, produced by the physician-led medical product company LockMed, allow individuals to store over-the-counter and prescription medications under a combination lock. In addition, each box includes a label listing UNITE’s toll-free treatment referral number – 1-866-908-6483 – for those seeking help with an addiction. Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Insurance (KEMI) President/CEO Roger Fries, left, and Vice President/CFO Jon Stewart, right, present one of 500 medication lockboxes to U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers and UNITE Director Karen Kelly on August 8. KEMI is donating the boxes for UNITE’s educational campaign to encourage safe storage of over-the-counter and prescription medicines. “We strongly believe that we have a responsibility to help protect our policyholders and injured workers from the dangers of drug abuse and misuse,” Fries stated. “We believe this unique alliance with Operation UNITE further demonstrates KEMI’s commitment to taking an active role in combating prescription drug abuse.” A national study conducted by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University™ in 2011 found 46 percent of all high school students currently use addictive substances, and 1 in 3 meets the medical criteria for addiction. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, an estimated 70 percent of teens obtain these drugs from family members or friends – often without their consent. “We can no longer afford to sit quietly on the sidelines. This epidemic now claims more lives every year through drug overdoses than any other accidental death,” said Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers. “In Kentucky, we are losing 82 people a month to drug abuse – more than car crashes.” “KEMI’s management and staff certainly understand the impact of prescription drug abuse and have committed to being a leader in prevention efforts both within their workforce and in the communities they serve,” Rogers continued. “I commend KEMI’s leadership team for their vision and pro-active efforts to bring about change.” The lockboxes will be distributed throughout southern and eastern Kentucky as part of UNITE’s “Accidental Dealer” campaign to raise awareness of the need to keep track of all medications in the home. “In southern and eastern Kentucky, the average age of first-time drug use is 11 years old,” noted Karen Kelly, UNITE director. “Prescription drug abuse – called this nation’s fastest-growing drug problem and classified as an epidemic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – is decimating our youth, tearing apart families, and exacting a terrible toll on communities overwhelmed by the human and economic costs of abuse.” “Our staff answers more than 1,200 calls each month from individuals coping with an addiction issue, either personally or for a family member,” Kelly said. “The scope of this crisis is simply overwhelming.” Support Of Youth Initiatives
In addition to the lockbox donation, KEMI has announced it will partner with other youth, community awareness and prevention initiatives. KEMI recently provided nine employees who served as volunteers for this summer’s Camp UNITE – a free, week-long leadership/adventure program for middle school-age youth held at the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg. Activities during camp are designed to develop leadership and communication skills, promote teamwork and problem solving, instill confidence and trust, and let youth know they do not have to face difficult situations on their own. Since its inception in 2007, Camp UNITE has served 1,132 students
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Post by Press Release on Aug 20, 2012 20:16:27 GMT -5
Nine indicted on drug-related charges Operation UNITE Press Release
Police continue their search for five of nine Breathitt County residents wanted on drug-related charges. Undercover drug investigations over the past year by Operation UNITE resulted in indictments by a Breathitt County Grand Jury on August 10. Most of the cases were developed through undercover drug purchases in Breathitt County and involved the sale of Percocet, OxyContin or heroin. Law enforcement officers from the Jackson Police Department assisted Operation UNITE detectives in attempting to serve the arrest warrants last week, but only four of the individuals have been located. “We really appreciate the assistance of Chief John Marshall and his staff,” said Keith Napier, Big Sandy Task Force Supervisor for UNITE. “With our close working relationship with the Jackson Police Department we hope we have been able to reduce the amount of drugs being sold in Breathitt County.”
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Post by Press Release on Sept 8, 2012 7:35:47 GMT -5
Michigan doctor ran pill pipeline to KY Operation UNITE Press Release
A Michigan doctor and two of his patients, suspected of operating a pill distribution ring to Eastern Kentucky, were arrested by federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officials earlier this week. Dr. Anthony Choe, 45, of Chelsea, Michigan, was arrested at his office Wednesday, September 5, on a federal indictment warrant charging him with conspiracy to distribute Oxycodone. Two of Choe’s patients – 47-year-old Clarence D. Bentley and his wife, 46-year-old Kelly Bentley, both from Albion, Michigan – were each arrested at their home Thursday, September 6, on the same charge. The Bentleys, along with approximately four other individuals who have not been identified by authorities, are believed to have delivered thousands of Oxycodone pills to dealers in Pike County, Kentucky, over the past two years, according to Dan Smoot, vice president/director of law enforcement for Operation UNITE. Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education) has worked with the DEA throughout the investigation. “Dr. Choe was the primary point of distribution for these pills,” Smoot noted. “He would write prescriptions for large quantities of Oxycodone. After being filled, the pills were brought to Pike County where they ultimately made their way to the users.” Several of the Kentucky dealers have been arrested over the course of the investigation, which began as street-level cases by Operation UNITE. A single 30mg Oxycodone pill has a street value of approximately $50, according to Smoot. Both Chelsea and Albion are located west of Detroit along I-94. Sealed indictments for the three individuals were issued by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky on August 23. Kentucky DEA officials from the London Field Office, along with officers from Operation UNITE, the Albion Department of Public Safety, Michigan DEA and the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations Division participated in the arrests. Law enforcement officials also executed federal search warrants at Choe’s family practice in Chelsea and at his home on Wednesday. Federal authorities confirmed that “records and drug evidence” were seized as part of their on-going investigation. Choe has made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan in Detroit, and the Bentleys have made their initial appearance in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan in Grand Rapids. All three are currently free on bond and will be required to make further court appearances at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky in Pikeville. The Laurel County Sheriff’s Office also participated in the investigation.
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Post by Press Release on Oct 4, 2012 16:12:06 GMT -5
OD death sentencing sets ‘precedent’ Operation UNITE Press Release
A Breathitt County woman is believed to be the first person federally sentenced in the Eastern District of Kentucky for causing an overdose death by illegally supplying the drugs. Judy McIntosh, 48, appeared before U.S. District Judge Gregory F. Van Tatenhove on Wednesday, Oct. 3, where she was formally sentenced to more than 27 years in prison for her role in the 2010 death of a 19-year-old woman, said U.S. Attorney Kerry B. Harvey. The case, a joint investigation by Operation UNITE and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, was welcomed by law enforcement officials. “Those who illegally sell drugs have been put on notice by this precedent-setting case,” said Dan Smoot, vice president and law enforcement director of Operation UNITE. “We still have to prove that a person sold the drugs, and that someone died as a result of taking the drugs, but now every time that somebody sells a pill they will have to worry about being charged with murder if that person dies.” “We certainly hope that this will serve as a deterrent, that the people out there who are engaged in the trafficking of these very dangerous drugs would take note at the fate that could await them should death result from their illegal activities,” Harvey noted. McIntosh’s case began two years ago as part of a larger investigation into drugs being brought into Breathitt and Lee counties from Florida, Smoot said. Between August 2010 and June 28, 2011, McIntosh conspired with others to distribute Oxycodone, according to court records. During one of those transactions, on Oct. 2, 2010, McIntosh sold Oxycodone pills to Ashley Ritchie, who died later that evening at McIntosh’s home in Breathitt County. A medical examiner’s report established the cause of death as an Oxycodone overdose. DEA officials and UNITE detectives arrested McIntosh on a federal indictment warrant in Lee County in 2011. On March 28, 2012, McIntosh entered a guilty plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge Hanly A. Ingram to two charges: 1) conspiracy to knowingly and intentionally distribute Oxycodone, and 2) distribution of Oxycodone that resulted in death from the use of Oxycodone. “The circumstances of this case did make it easier to make this prosecution because of the very close link between Ms. McIntosh and the victim and the drugs that caused the death,” Harvey said. Under federal law, there is a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in prison when an overdose death can be linked to a dealer who provided the drugs.
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Post by Press Release on Oct 8, 2012 19:33:20 GMT -5
Dragon to hit One Million pill milestone Operation UNITE Press Release
Operation UNITE’s Pill Dragon is poised to destroy its One millionth pill during an appearance in Owsley County on Monday, October 15. Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers, along with members of the Kentucky Army National Guard command staff, will be on hand to commemorate the occasion during a “Clean Your Medicine Cabinet Out Day” program beginning at 1 p.m. at the Senior Citizens Center on KY 30 in Booneville. The public is invited to bring their unused or out-of-date medications for disposal between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Rogers, along with the UNITE team, will also present the Owsley County Sheriff’s Office with a permanent medicine drop box that residents can use year-round. “One of the easiest ways for people to help reduce the prescription drug abuse epidemic is to eliminate the temptation within their own homes,” said Karen Kelly, director of UNITE. “According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, two-thirds of teens who abuse prescription medicines say they obtain the drugs from friends, family and acquaintances, often without their consent, while only 5 percent report they get them from a drug dealer.” The program will highlight the importance of properly safeguarding medications. “With most teens turning to the family medicine cabinet for their first-time use of prescription and/or over-the-counter medications, take-back programs – such as the Pill Dragon – can have a tremendous impact on drug use in the community,” noted Dan Smoot, vice president and law enforcement director for UNITE, adding “proper control of personal medications also reduces your risk of being a victim of a burglary or theft.” Aside from the fact that taking or giving away medicine not prescribed to you is illegal, even at small doses the potential exists for serious health effects – including death. This is especially worrisome in southern and eastern Kentucky, where the average age of first-time use is just 11 years old. “In Kentucky, we are losing 82 people a month to drug abuse – more than car crashes,” Kelly said. “Nationally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one person dies every 19 minutes from a drug overdose – more than cocaine and heroin combined. This epidemic is decimating our youth, tearing apart families, and exacting a terrible toll on communities overwhelmed by the human and economic costs of abuse.” UNITE has held 44 “Clean Your Medicine Cabinet Out Day” programs in coordination with local coalitions since the Pill Dragon – a mobile incinerator provided in cooperation with Eastern Kentucky PRIDE and the Kentucky Army National Guard – debuted on August 6, 2010. Since inception, the Pill Dragon has destroyed 991,383 pills.
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Post by Press Release on Oct 15, 2012 16:23:20 GMT -5
Bluegrass Policy Forum on Substance Abuse Operation UNITE Press Release
A bi-partisan panel of state and federal policy makers will discuss current initiatives to make a positive impact on curbing the drug abuse epidemic at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park on Monday, October 29. A limited number of seats are still available for the Bluegrass Policy Forum on Substance Abuse, presented by the Operation UNITE Foundation and the Recovery Kentucky program. Panel members for the Forum include Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers, chair of the U.S. House Committee on Appropriations and founder of UNITE; Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear; Kentucky House Speaker Greg Stumbo (D-95th District); Kentucky House Majority Floor Leader Rocky Adkins (D-99th District); Kentucky Senate Majority Floor Leader Robert Stivers II (R-25th District); and Kentucky Senator Brandon Smith (R-30th District), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. The forum, which includes a question-and-answer session, will be moderated by Renee Shaw of Kentucky Educational Television (KET). Shaw is host and co-producer of “Connections with Renee Shaw,” a weekly interview and discussion series, co-host of KET’s election night coverage, and a substitute host on “Kentucky Tonight.” Seats for this special forum are still available for $200, and must be made in advance by calling 1-866-678-6483. The program, which begins at 6 p.m., includes dinner. All proceeds from the Bluegrass Policy Forum on Substance Abuse will benefit treatment/recovery and educational initiatives of UNITE and Recovery Kentucky, a program operated by the Kentucky Housing Authority. UNITE Director Karen Kelly and Kentucky Housing Corporation Executive Director Mike Townsend will participate in the program. “Too often we think of substance abuse from an impersonal perspective when, in reality, we should be focusing on the individuals and families overwhelmed with the consequences of a loved one’s addiction,” said Karen Kelly, director of UNITE. “Our state lost 82 lives a month to drugs last year – more deaths than from motor vehicle crashes,” Kelly lamented. “It is especially sobering to look into the faces of innocent children who are abused, abandoned or forgotten because of their care-giver’s addiction and wonder, ‘What can I do to make things better?’” UNITE was created in 2003 to provide a holistic, community-based approach to addressing problems with prescription drug abuse. Approximately 1,200 calls a month are made to UNITE’s Treatment Referral Line (1-866-908-6483), and nearly 3,000 low-income individuals have received vouchers for residential treatment for an addiction. Recovery Kentucky is a program that helps Kentuckians recover from chronic substance abuse and addiction, and move toward a life of sobriety and productivity. It supplies supportive housing to those suffering with addiction through 10 centers across the commonwealth.
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Post by Press Release on Oct 16, 2012 12:51:35 GMT -5
Members of the Kentucky Army National Guard pose with U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers and Kentucky Senator Robert Stivers. From left are: Sgt. Timothy McClish, Sgt. Shane Campbell, Lt. Col. Bryan Howay, Congressman Rogers, Senator Stivers, and Major Mike Unger.
Dragon Fire Consumes One Millionth Pill Operation UNITE Press Release
“Today in Owsley County you are going to make history,” U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers told nearly 100 people gathered at the Owsley County Senior Citizens Center Monday afternoon. “You are going to burn (Operation) UNITE’s one millionth pill.” Rogers was referring to UNITE’s “Pill Dragon,” a mobile incinerator made possible through a collaboration with the Kentucky Army National Guard and Eastern Kentucky PRIDE. The million-pill milestone was far surpassed, as 21,377 unused or out-of-date prescription and over-the-counter drugs were collected in just two hours – bringing the total number of pills destroyed to 1,012,760 since the Pill Dragon was unveiled in August 2010. “The truth is prescription medication is the biggest threat to families,” Rogers said, noting most teens say they obtain their drugs from friends, family and acquaintances, often without their consent from the home medicine cabinet. Take-back programs, such as the Pill Dragon, reduce the opportunity for youth to get drugs, either for personal use or to sell on the streets, noted Karen Kelly, director of UNITE. Proper safeguarding of medications is also important because it reduces the risk of becoming a victim of a burglary or theft. In an effort to help Owsley County residents safely dispose of their medications, Congressman Rogers, on behalf of the Owsley County Anti-Drug Council (a UNITE community coalition), presented a medication drop box that will be available at the Sheriff’s Office year-round. Among those on hand to show their support for the 45th “Clean Your Medicine Cabinet Out Day” program were Kentucky Senator Robert Stivers of Manchester; Owsley County Judge-Executive Ronnie DeBord, Owsley Schools Superintendent Tim Bobrowski, Owsley County Sheriff Kelly Shouse, Booneville Police Chief Johnny Logsdon, Lee County Sheriff Wendell Childers, Beattyville Police Chief Greg Brandenburg, members of the Kentucky National Guard Joint Support Operations in London, Kentucky Senator Chris Girdler of Somerset, and Donna McClure, field representative for U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell. “If you really want to see the cost of drugs … go to a Family Court, go to a Drug Court, and see how many children are being affected,” Senator Stivers stated. “This is a big day. I have watched what’s happened with the culture of drugs (throughout the state).” During his remarks, Rogers praised Stivers “for picking up the banner” to get state money for UNITE initiatives in the wake of federal cutbacks over the past few years. The importance, Rogers continued, can be seen through the efforts of volunteers in counties such as Owsley. “You are fighting the good fight.” As part of the celebration, Rogers presented Lt. Col. Bryan Howay of the National Guard with a “Difference Maker” award in recognition of their ongoing anti-drug efforts and support for UNITE’s education and law enforcement initiatives.
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