Fatal overdoses in Kentucky plummets to record-low
BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- The Kentucky State Police Angel Initiative program is highlighted as part of many efforts to keep drug overdoses down.
Katan Parker, Public Information Officer for Kentucky State Police said, “a lot of people that are addicted to drugs, they really do want to get off of it, they just don’t know how.”
The state of Kentucky’s opioid epidemic is improving according to the governor’s office press release. The report said that there is a 22.9% fatal overdose decrease in 2025, hitting a low record since 2014.
The state’s proactive attributes to keeping the records low include: Narcan distribution, 82 syringe exchange programs, services and treatment for addiction, substance prevention programs, Kentucky State Police’s Angel Incentive program, and more.
It also stated that 1,110 Kentuckians lost their lives to a drug overdose last year. Fentanyl and methamphetamine had the highest rates that contributed to the deaths.
The Kentucky State Police Angel Initiative is a program that allows users to drop off drugs and get the help they need.
Trooper Parker said those battling with substance abuse and who are afraid to seek help, can walk into a judgement free zone at any KSP local post.
“We want people to actually feel comfortable to walk into post 3 or any other post, turn their drugs in and then look at us in the eye and tell us they need help and then we will get them that help,” said Parker.
Governor Andy Beshear stated in a press release:
“Kentucky has been one of the states hit hardest by opioids, yet we are showing the nation what’s possible by working together. from Medicaid to supporting our recovery partners, law enforcement and more, every piece of this fight is critical to continue the progress we’re making together.”
Parker said he’s had a personal experience with witnessing the angel initiative program helping someone.
“I actually got to drop a guy off and pick him up from his treatment center and I got to drop him off back at the house and he went on to tell me how he’s glad he did it and lol that stuff like that and how much better he feels,” Parker said.
If you or someone you know is battling addiction, you can call 833-859-4357 for further assistance or utilize Kentucky State Police’s Angel Initiative program.
