Fighting the Crisis: Inside the FCPD’s Overdose Investigation Unit

Fairfax County, VA – In response to the opioid epidemic sweeping the country, FCPD launched the Overdose Investigations Unit (OIU) in 2018 to combat the devastating effects of drug overdoses. This unit is one of the few specialized teams in the country dedicated to investigating opioid-related overdoses.

WHO ARE WE?

The OIU’s mission is to investigate individuals who distribute narcotics and contribute to fatal and non-fatal overdoses. The unit was created in 2018 to combat the rise in opioid-related deaths in Fairfax County. The unit originally consisted of two detectives and a supervisor and has grown to include six detectives, a crime analyst and a lieutenant.

WHAT DO WE DO?

OIU responds to overdose scenes, speaks to witnesses, collects evidence and develops leads to identify suspects who distribute the illegal narcotics that lead to overdoses. Working with our Major Crimes Bureau and Cyber ​​and Forensics Bureau, detectives utilize the latest technology to collect evidence and examine various forms of electronic and digital devices. OIU also cooperates with state and federal authorities in prosecuting these cases, which have resulted in prison sentences of up to 30 years.

Additionally, the OIU connects individuals who have suffered a non-fatal overdose with the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board for post-overdose support and services to ensure they receive the treatment and support they need. For more information about the services, click HERE.

EDUCATION:

OIU detectives not only have a high level of experience, but are also highly trained in these overdose cases. They participate in nationwide training on overdose and narcotics investigations and drug diversion and stay current on updates to state and federal legislation.

In addition to its investigative duties, the unit participates in outreach with community members to raise awareness about the dangers of opioids, particularly fentanyl, and current trends in Fairfax County. OIU also works with several other stakeholders through the Fairfax County Opioid and Substance Use Task Force to advance the county’s opioid response plan. This multi-pronged initiative includes approximately 40 opioid-related programs/activities, including the OIU, whose shared goal is to reduce opioid overdose deaths and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by opioid use disorder.

WHAT IS FENTANYL?

Fentanyl is a highly addictive synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Just 2 mg of fentanyl, the small amount that fits on the tip of a pencil, is considered a potentially lethal dose.

TIPS YOU SHOULD KEEP IN MIND:

• Recognize the signs of an overdose: Tell yourself and others about the signs of overdose, including shallow breathing, unresponsiveness, pale or clammy skin, and narrow pupils.
• Act quickly: If you suspect someone is having an overdose, call emergency services immediately. Time is of the essence in overdose situations, and rapid intervention can significantly increase the chances of survival.
• Administer naloxone (Narcan): If you have access to naloxone, administer it as quickly as possible in the event of an opioid overdose. Naloxone can reverse the effects of opioids and restore normal breathing.

For more information about opioids and the prevention, support and treatment resources available in Fairfax County, click HERE.

For more information about this and other road safety initiatives, notifications and results, follow us on XFacebook and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.