Bilirakis Shadows Local Law Enforcement, Discusses Overdose and Crime Rates

Land O' Lakes, FL: Earlier today, U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis participated in a Ride Along with a Pasco County Sheriff's Office Captain. During the visit, the lawmaker got a first-hand view of the unique challenges law enforcement officers face as they work to ensure public safety. One of the main topics of discussion was the rise in overdose deaths happening throughout the state of Florida and within Pasco County. Since 2019, Pasco County has seen a 71% increase in the number of confirmed overdose deaths. This alarming local trend is aligned with what has been seen on a national level, with the majority of overdose deaths involving a synthetic opioid, such as fentanyl.

The DEA has determined that just 2 milligrams of fentanyl is considered a lethal dose. In 2021 alone, DEA seized enough fentanyl to provide a lethal dose to every American, 7 times over. Synthetic opioids, like fentanyl, are highly addictive and inexpensive to produce, leading criminal drug networks to increasingly mix it with other illicit drugs—in powder, pill and vape form—in an effort to drive addiction and attract repeat buyers. Often times, the user is unaware that they are taking a product laced with a lethal substance. Law enforcement officials also report that most of the synthetic opioids found on streets throughout the country have been manufactured in China and then trafficked across the southern border.

"Our law enforcement community is on the front lines combatting this public health problem, and they are doing a tremendous job- but they need much more support," said Congressman Bilirakis. "One practical and urgently needed solution to the fentanyl crisis is securing the border and enforce the rule of law. However, we must also focus on education, prevention and ensuring access to quality behavioral health treatment. It will take a collaborative approach to truly turn the tides in this epidemic that is ravaging communities across the country."

Rates of crime have been rising in many urban areas throughout the country, with attacks against law enforcement officers surging. Nationwide, there was a 58.7% increase in the number of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty in 2021. This dangerous situation is exacerbated by calls to "Defund the Police," lack of criminal prosecution, and anti-law enforcement rhetoric by some liberal leaders. With Sheriff Chris Nocco at the helm in Pasco County, citizens have the confidence of knowing that a dedicated and proven public servant is doing everything possible to keep crime rates low. Despite his yeomen's effort and widespread, local support of law enforcement, our men and women in blue continue to confront violence. In May of 2022, a joint team of Pasco and Hernando law enforcement officers were fired upon by a home invasion suspect.

"We must never forget that these men and women are risking their lives every day," said Congressman Bilirakis. "They have earned our support and gratitude. We can demonstrate such by ensuring they have the resources, tools and training needed to do their jobs safely and effectively. We must continue to back the Blue!"