The Opioid EpidemicOpium has been around for thousands of years. It was grown in the Mediterranean region as early as 5000 BC and is now cultivated in many countries around the world. Opium is derived from the poppy plant, Papaver somniferum. An opioid epidemic has gripped the United States, beginning in the 1990s, and has been the cause of over 645,000 deaths throughout the country. (CDC - Opioids) North Carolina, and by extension, Davie County, has not been immune to this epidemic. Both prescription and illicit drugs containing opiates have become an overwhelming cause of overdoses. (Opioid Fact Sheet) Davie County Sheriff's Office, in conjunction with other county and state agencies, works diligently every day to battle this crisis by investigating and pursuing criminal drug activity in Davie County. |