Lt. Eric Wood on Policing Amidst the Opioid Crisis
I think it's the biggest shift, the biggest change, the biggest, uh, you know- problem that, uh, that we're dealing with.
Imagine being a police officer in a seemingly peaceful, upper-middle-class town like Westport, Connecticut, and finding yourself on the front lines of the opioid epidemic. That's the reality for Lt. Eric Wood, who shares his compelling experiences on this episode of Recovery Radio. Far from the stereotypical image of policing, Wood's role has evolved dramatically due to the drug crisis sweeping through his community.
Instead of just enforcing laws, officers now carry Narcan to save lives from overdoses and engage in preventive education efforts with young people. This episode dives deep into how the opioid epidemic has reshaped police work and the community itself. Lt. Wood discusses the critical need for youth involvement in education and prevention, emphasizing that understanding the harsh realities of opioid abuse is crucial for stemming the tide.
You'll hear about the challenges officers face daily and the emotional toll it takes on them. If you're interested in how addiction impacts communities and the evolving role of law enforcement, this episode offers eye-opening insights and practical advice.