Benton PD forms Overdose Response Team thanks to funding
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LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Benton Police Department announced Thursday they are able to form an Overdose Response Team with funds awarded by Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership.
Chief Hodges said that Overdose Response Teams through ARORP allow for law enforcement agencies to hire an overdose investigator and Peer Recovery Specialist.
“The investigator will seek out suppliers for prosecution with assistance from the DEA Tactical Drug Division,” said Hodges, “and the Peer Recovery Specialist will provide counseling and follow-up to overdose victims regarding treatment and recovery services, as well as engage in community education regarding substance abuse.”
Hodges also said the police department is honored to work with Director Lane and the Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership.
“This has been a long-standing partnership and joint goal of many to curb this epidemic,” said Hodges. “The pandemic was a huge setback nationwide for these efforts, but with programs such as ARORP and projects such as the Overdose Response Team, things are looking up. We’re excited to see what progress will be made, and again, we say thank you for enabling our department to increase efforts in this battle.”
