Alarming Heroin Incidents Prompt Meeting in Shakopee

Heroin use is on the rise in suburbs of the Twin Cities, but Scott County occurrences in particular have been especially alarming, say officials with FISH, Families and Individuals Sharing Hope.

As a result, a FISH meeting Thursday, June 14 will focus on educating citizens about heroin: recognizing various forms of the drug, paraphernalia, related behaviors, and prevention strategies.

Program Overview:

Southwest MN Drug Task Force Agent

• A task force member will share the state's efforts in the fight against heroin and answer questions about protecting children from the increasing risk of being affected.

Scott County Attorney's Office

• Jenni Engebretson, senior legal assistant in the juvenile division, will present trends and statistics in Scott County and how the county attorney's office is committed to supporting drug-free communities.

Weathering the Heroin Storm

• Two guests who were once caught in the throes of heroin addiction will share their experience and recovery.

The meeting is open to the public, with participation from concerned youth especially encouraged, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, June 14, at .

While Dakota County prosecuted 39 adult cases of heroin possession or distribution in 2011 compared to 22 in 2009, the numbers in much smaller Scott rose much faster, authorities say, from 10 to 37 in that same time, according to a Star Tribune report.

FISH is expecting significant attendence so if you plan to attend, they are asking for RSVPs by emailing fish@fishgroup.net or calling 952.440.3600.

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