"Far too many people in our community, from all walks of life, have felt the devastating effects of fentanyl," said SDPD Chief David Nisleit."We must take an aggressive approach to this epidemic. The San Diego Police Department continues to work with our law enforcement and community partners to track down, arrest and prosecute those who would peddle this poison in our neighborhoods and to some of our most vulnerable populations.
The order also directs city staff to develop a plan in concert with the San Diego City Council and city attorney for what to do with the estimated $30 million in national opioid settlement funding that will be coming to the city over the next eight years, a city statement reads. "Combating the fentanyl crisis in our region which is harming and killing our family members, children and neighbors is a top priority for my office," said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid invented as an anesthetic for surgery. Deaths from the drug, which is cheap to produce and far more potent than heroin, have increased tenfold from five years ago, when it first emerged as a common street drug. Gloria announced his intent to enact an executive order on fentanyl at a media briefing with law enforcement earlier this month. The order takes effect immediately.Keep up with all the latest news, arts and culture, and TV highlights from KPBS.