Police: Soledad families facing losses due to opioid epidemic

SOLEDAD, Calif. (KION) Soledad police are sending a warning about the dangers of opioid use. "In the recent year we were dispatched to over 21 overdose cases here in our city," said Soledad Police Detective, Gustavo Gomez.

This month, two overdose cases ended in death. Both were under the age of 30. Gomez said the pills taken were likely laced with Fentanyl. This synthetic drugs is 80 to 100 times more powerful than Morphine. A small, two milligram dose can kill most people.

"We're all quarantined in our homes. That may be a factor. They want to try something new at home. It's also highly addictive," Gustavo.

Overdoses in Soledad are most commonly reported between ages 17 and 40.

Police are urging parents to tell their kids about the dangers of using drugs.

"I explain it to them because that's just the world we live in," said Soledad mother, Sandra Morales.

Morales has experienced the negative impact drugs can have. She said her kids' father suffers from addiction, but it's not something she's tried to hide.  "Explaining to them what drugs can do to you, will show them that they are not what they want," said Morales.

Police hope open conversation will help change more teens' attitude towards drug use.

"If anyone needs resources you can go to Sun Street Center or you can also come to the Soledad Police Department," said Morales.

Anyone with information about illegal drug distribution is asked to call 831-223-5159 or leave a tip here.