Casey discusses ‘FEND Off Fentanyl Act’
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) —The opioid epidemic has devastated many families throughout our region, the commonwealth, and across the country.
Efforts are underway to stop the flow of fentanyl over the southwest border and support law enforcement working to secure the border.
In the hopes of inspiring change, a local mother is speaking out after her son tragically lost his battle with addiction.
“if I can save or change one life, it is worth it,” Maryann Veno, of Archbald.
Maryann Veno’s son A.J. Passed away on December 15, 2017. The 22-year-old from Archbald struggled with addiction, which ultimately ended his life.
“We were a very supportive family, and unfortunately he took the wrong thing, and today I just want to give the message that it’s out there. And please, please watch what you do, watch what you take, because you don’t know,” Veno added.
Scranton Police Detective Kyle Gilmartin to be guest at State of the Union
Veno shared her family’s story Monday during a news conference at Scranton Police headquarters.
Senator Bob Casey discussed the fend off fentanyl act, and how it cracks down on criminal organizations in the fentanyl supply chain.
“There are families like Maryann who have suffered grievously and all they’re asking us is to do something, to take action. Not to just give speeches or talk about it, but to take action. Vote for fend off fentanyl, and vote for investments that will allow us to detect fentanyl at the border,” said Sen. Bob Casey, (d) Pennsylvania.
Scranton Police officers administer Narcan, respond to fatal overdoses, and deal with distraught families every day.
Chief Tom Carroll says the crisis also leaves lasting impacts on the officers themselves and their families.
“The gangs do not recognize geographical boundaries between states, cities, or towns, nor do they care about the sanctity of life. There needs to be penalties for the bad actions,” said Chief Thomas Carroll, Scranton Police Department.
A recent report shows that accidental drug overdoses were the top cause of death for Pennsylvanians under 40 in 2022.
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