Local law enforcement discusses recent drug seizures

BUFFALO, NY — The Erie County Sheriff’s Office is sending a message to the public today: “Your Medications Are Not Safe”

Erie County law enforcement officials stood alongside local, state and federal agencies today as they announced three recent arrests and several drug seizures.

Officials say the arrests and activity took place throughout Erie County, spanning Amherst, Kenmore and the city of Buffalo.

The substances found were large amounts of cocaine and fentanyl. According to the data, most overdose deaths in Erie County are related to fentanyl mixed with cocaine.

“The mixture has more fentanyl than cocaine, and why? Fentanyl is a lot cheaper than cocaine, so like I said before, it’s a greed issue,” said Erie County Sheriff John Garcia.

Today’s announcement by law enforcement highlights a larger problem in Erie County: a record increase in drug overdose deaths.

In 2023, there were a record 447 overdose deaths, and by the halfway point of 2024, that number stands at 197.

“The households that have been affected are abandoned children, grandparents who have to care for their children,” Rashone Scott-Williams said.

Scott-Williams is the founder and CEO of Western New York Mobile Overdose Prevention Services and has been able to establish free Narcan distribution sites throughout the Buffalo area.

“The first thing I would say is pick up the phone, get help, talk to someone, talk to someone I trust,” Rashone said.

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and is looking for one of the WNY OPS Hot Spots, click here.