For the first time, carfentanil, a synthetic opioid 100 times more potent than fentanyl, has been seized on Long Island. The seizure came after a seven-month narcotics investigation in Suffolk County, where the deadly drug was found. The drug, known on the street as “Super Mario,” is typically used to tranquilize large mammals. Warrants were issued for four suspected carfentanil drug peddlers, with three pleading not guilty and one remaining at large.
A public health alert was issued in Long Island and Central New York State, where carfentanil was first spotted. Officials are concerned about people experimenting with or buying pills containing carfentanil, as it can have deadly consequences due to its potency. Families affected by opioid overdoses, like Carole Trottere, are mourning the loss of loved ones and are worried about the rising use of carfentanil among young people.
There will be a fentanyl crisis rally at Robert Moses State Park on Sunday to raise awareness about the dangers of opioids and to call for action to address the crisis. According to Steve Chassman, executive director of the Long Island Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence, the drug supply in New York State is tainted with carfentanil, posing a serious threat to the community. Authorities are also urging the public to be vigilant and educate themselves about the dangers of the drug.
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