U.S. Rep. Davis pushing to address drug epidemic

Posted on May 9, 2016
Rodney Davis, Kathy Davis, Jon Sandage
U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (far right) examined seized drugs with Sheriff Jon Sandage (far left) and Coroner Kathy Davis (middle left). (Adam Studzinski/WJBC)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – McLean County saw a 70 percent increase in controlled substance arrests last year. That’s something U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Taylorville) discussed with the county coroner and sheriff Friday during a tour of some of their facilities.

Davis said this isn’t just a problem in McLean County.

“This is district wide. This is nationwide. You saw this become part of the presidential debate because it’s become so widespread,” he said.

Heroin has become a particular problem. Coroner Kathy Davis said the county has five heroin overdose deaths during 2015. Rodney Davis said he’s helping introduce federal legislation this week designed to help give law enforcement the tools they need.

“What we’re trying to do is re-appropriate existing moneys to go toward the fight against heroin and opioids,” said Rodney Davis. “We’re going to continue to take suggestions, work in conjunction with our local law enforcement officials to ensure that they have the resources.”

Davis expected the bills to get bipartisan support.

Davis also went on a ride along with a K-9 unit to further discuss what deputies go through during a drug stop.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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