Indianapolis News and Headlines

Actions

Clash in Howard Co. over needle exchange petition

Prosecutor says it promotes crime
Posted at 12:29 AM, Jul 29, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-29 00:29:44-04

HOWARD COUNTY, Ind. -- A clash was underway this week in Howard County, as public health and public safety officials argued about the merits of a needle exchange.

The health department there is in the midst of generating a petition to the state for a needle exchange program. In a county where heroin use is rampant, Howard County health officials are trying to make the case for HIV, AIDS and hepatitis C prevention.

While the Howard County Prosecutor is on board with trying to stop the spread of disease, he says a needle exchange program promotes crime.

The health department has been working since March on its needle exchange petition. They have yet to submit it for state approval.

MORE HEROIN COVERAGE: Franklin PD arrests 21 in heroin ring | Sheriff issues stern warning, plea for help after heroin deathEditorial: Heroin is a disease, not a choice | How to spot a heroin userMom turns heroin heartache into mission | City launches program to end heroin use, disease'Don't sugarcoat this,' mom says of heroin deathHamilton Co.: Wealthy, educated, dying of heroin | Heroin overdoses skyrocket in Shelbyville | Howard County sees spike in heroin overdoses | Fishers police fighting growing heroin problem | Anderson PD targets 24 suspects in heroin bust | Heroin may be the most addictive drug | Heroin, designer drugs remain popular in school