Local task force gets state anti-drug funds

VW independent/submitted information

COLUMBUS — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is awarding more than $2 million in grant funding to support local law enforcement, including a local crime task force, in their work to disrupt the drug trade in Ohio and enhance their role in substance use awareness, prevention, and recovery. 

Grants from Governor DeWine’s RecoveryOhio Law Enforcement Fund will be provided to 27 existing drug task forces to intensify their efforts to identify high-level drug traffickers; dismantle large drug trafficking organizations; interrupt the flow of money and drugs from Mexican cartels; and prevent the sale of illegal narcotics to those suffering from substance use disorder.

Included in the awards is $124,582.21 to the West Central Ohio Crime Task Force, based in Allen and Van Wert counties, which works to eliminate drug-trafficking operations in the two counties. Members of the task force include the Allen and Van Wert County sheriff’s offices, Lima Police Department, and a number of state and federal law enforcement agencies.

Funding will also be used to support the mission of Governor DeWine’s RecoveryOhio initiative which aims to increase substance use and mental health awareness, implement age-appropriate prevention education in schools, connect those who need help with treatment, and promote recovery.

“Ohio’s task force officers work day and night to identify and arrest the drug traffickers who are fueling addiction,” said Governor DeWine. “These grants will help local authorities continue this important work, as well as expand law enforcement’s role in preventing substance abuse through prevention, education, and proactive outreach.”