jacksonville, florida – “One pill kills”
That’s state attorney general Ashley Moody’s warning to college students starting the fall semester.
Fentanyl is a deadly synthetic opioid that mixes so easily with other drugs that you may not even know it’s there.
“It’s a game of Russian roulette. You never know which bag you’ll get,” said Chris Colcord, an advocate for Beaches Recovery’s therapeutic placement.
Colcord battled opium addiction in her twenties before becoming an addiction recovery counselor.
“I had knee surgery and was prescribed OxyContin and it progressed from there. The easiest way was to switch to heroin, but then heroin came along and of course fentanyl was a cheaper option. It was,” Colcord said.
News4JAX has reached out to several Jacksonville colleges with plans to address this issue during the new semester.
The University of North Florida released the following statement:
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“The University of North Florida strictly prohibits the illegal purchase, possession, distribution, and/or use of illegal drugs. The University monitors the national fentanyl situation and all University Police Department (UPD) officers UNF has completed mandatory training to respond to fentanyl and other opioid-related calls All UPD officers carry naloxone and are trained to administer it. Housing and Residential Life staff have completed self-directed training in the administration of fentanyl and naloxone The Informed Ospreys Program has an online module related to opioid use that must be completed by all new students Counseling Center and Student Health The service also provides support, resources, and referrals to care providers for students struggling with substance abuse.”
Jacksonville University also issued a statement.
“Jacksonville University applauds all efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit drug use. All students admitted to Jacksonville University are required to participate in a mandatory drug and alcohol education program JU’s campus safety and security department provides drug and alcohol education throughout the academic year. In addition, Jacksonville University has a medical pardon policy for students, which states if a student is facing a crisis or emergency involving drugs or alcohol, or is at risk of means that students can report to their residence advisor or campus safety and security officer without being subject to disciplinary action if they are with a friend who is sick.This policy reflects our commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of our students. We support their efforts and encourage them to get the help they need.”
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