DEA Rocky Mountain Division Hosts Inaugural Family Summit
DENVER –Today the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Rocky Mountain Division hosted its first Family Summit in support of those who have lost loved ones to the drug poisoning and overdose epidemic.
This is the first undertaking of its kind for the division, building off the momentum of this summer’s Inaugural Family Summit hosted at DEA Headquarters in Arlington, VA.
More than a dozen families attended today’s summit, which allowed DEA and its local, state and federal partners to listen and learn from families who are living an unthinkable tragedy. Additionally, the summit provided participants information on resources available to enhance local prevention efforts.
“We are so appreciative of these families taking the time to share their stories with us, and giving us an opportunity to better understand what we can do with our resources to amplify their message in an effort to save lives throughout the region,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian Besser of the DEA Rocky Mountain Division. “This is an opportunity for us to work together to change the course of this devastating trend of accidental poisonings and overdoses. This dialogue doesn’t end today, I promise this important and impactful conversation will continue.”
“We want these families to know we are motivated by the stories they have shared. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will remain steadfast in our efforts to seek justice for the victims of this terrible scourge that is sweeping through our country. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to prosecute the criminals who are making and distributing fentanyl, and who are killing our loved ones and our neighbors,” said U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan.
Participants heard from narcotics officers, state and federal prosecutors, and prevention and advocacy experts. They were provided an update on the Colorado Opioid Settlement and collectively discussed ways to increase awareness around the dangers associated with fentanyl.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 107,622 people died by drug poisoning in the United States in 2021. A majority of drug poisoning deaths are attributed to synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl.
If you are interested in information on how to get involved in future events you are encouraged to reach out to the DEA Rocky Mountain Division or complete the Advocates for Change form and submit it to familyoutreach@dea.gov.
DEA has resources available to help parents and care givers talk to kids about the dangers of drug use. You can also visit the Get Smart About Drugs website.
If you or someone you know needs help with substance use or mental health disorders, please visit DEA’s Recovery Resources page for list of resources.