Last night, Assemblyman Karl Brabenec (R,C,I-Deerpark) hosted a public forum at Port Jervis High School to discuss the ongoing heroin epidemic that has claimed the lives of thousands. Across the nation, addiction to this drug has become a disease that desperately needs immediate action. Brabenec was joined by several officials including Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler, Lt. Paul Arteta, and Orange County Legislator Thomas Faggione. Also in attendance were Martin Colavito of Catholic Charities, Chief William Worden and Sgt. Michael Worden of the Port Jervis Police Department, Tammy Rhein from the Dept. of Mental Health, Phil Gore from Restorative Management, Niki Jones from the Port Jervis Neighborhood Watch, and Valerie Maginsky from Operation PJ Pride.

“Last night was an important community conversation about not only the dangers of heroin but how we as public officials can help find better solutions when it comes to prevention, treatment and recovery,” said Brabenec. “While it was heartbreaking, and at times difficult to listen to some of the testimonies offered, the information we learned will be invaluable moving forward. I want to thank everyone who had the courage to come forward.”

After a number of short presentations from law enforcement, charities, and the government officials present, those in attendance heard testimony from recovering addicts and parents who have lost children, and had the opportunity to ask questions of the panel members.