May 29, 2020
Contact: Brian McNeal
Phone Number: (571) 362-1498
For Immediate Release

DEA to announce Operation 360 campaign to address substance abuse, prescription misuse, and violent crime in Central Ohio

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Detroit Field Division and Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Mauricio Jimenez, Columbus Division Office, announced Central Ohio will become the 17th site where the DEA will implement its comprehensive Operation 360 initiative to address prescription misuse and violent crime. 

Central Ohio 360 is a comprehensive three pronged approach that includes community outreach, diversion control and law enforcement coordination.  By partnering with other federal, state and local government agencies and law enforcement, we can work together to eliminate drug trafficking organizations and gangs fueling violence.

“Central Ohio 360 will incorporate faith based initiatives, work to provide existing outreach programs with training and resources, support and help promote public messaging and assist grassroots movements such as Project Fairfield County Overdose Response Team (Project FORT) and Rapid Response Emergency Addiction Crisis Team (RREACT) within each community,” said Jimenez.

“Our goal is to empower Central Ohio communities to be part of the solution, and give hope to young people and enable them to make better choices for a healthier and happier life,” Jimenez added.

At a later date, a joint press conference with key stakeholders and partners will be held to launch the Central Ohio 360 campaign. Any questions regarding Central Ohio 360 can be directed to Community Outreach Coordinator Wendie Jackson at (614) 403-2131, or ASAC Mauricio Jimenez. 

Members of the media wishing to learn more about Central Ohio 360 should contact Public Information Officer Brian McNeal at (313) 588-1625.

DEA’s 360 Strategy is a comprehensive approach tackling the cycle of violence and addiction generated by the link between drug cartels, violent gangs, and the rising problem of prescription opioid and heroin abuse in U.S. cities. Become a part of the campaign by using hashtags #HopeHealthHappiness; #CentralOhio360; #soberlife; and #WakeUpCentralOhio. Follow DEA on Facebook ; on Twitter @DEADetroitDiv; and Instagram at deahq.