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Dear Mayor Christenson and Members of the City Council,
We are a group of citizens that are deeply concerned about the drug epidemic we are facing in the State of Massachusetts and in particular our city of Malden.
Malden ranks #19 out of 50 for deadly overdoses, that needs to change!
Unfortunately, when people think of an addict they picture something to the degree of a homeless person begging for money. In reality, many addicts are hardworking individuals who participate in everyday life.
Are they not worth saving?
We are aware that EMT’s serving our city carry the lifesaving nasal spar NARCAN (Naloxone), as does our Fire Department. We respectfully ask that Malden Police Officers carry it as well.
In an emergency situation often time Police Officers are first on scene and have the ability ot save a life is equipped with the right tools.
Our neighboring cities officers carry NARCAN and lives have been saved, we ask Malden Police follow their lead. Training officers in how to administer this drug is a two hour class, it is provided free of charge to all LEO’s by non-profit groups specializing in addiction and rehab. We can arrange for our officers to receive that training.
We ask that the Mayor and City Council make every attempt to negotiate with the police department to equip every officer with NARCAN.
Although, Mayor Christenson has stated to several residents that “they are aiming” for Malden Police Officers to carry NARCAN by July 1st, Malden residents EXPECT our elected officials to act now!
It takes a village, but together we can make a difference and maybe save a life, it might even be a friend or family member of yours.
Sincerely,
SEE ATTACHMENT FOR SIGNATORS