Michigan Fentanyl Seizure and Overdose Update
Last week, the GRDP seized 500 grams of fentanyl in Grandville, Michigan.
Last week, the Grand Rapids Police Department seized 500 grams of fentanyl from an apartment complex in Grandville, Michigan. GRPD Deputy Chief Maycroft said it was enough fentanyl to “kill the entire population of Grand Rapids and Grandville combined.” Fentanyl is an FDA-approved rapid-acting synthetic opioid that alleviates pain. However, fentanyl also depresses the central nervous system and respiratory function, which can be fatal even in small amounts. Illegal fentanyl is increasingly used to “cut” drugs like heroin or cocaine, often without the user knowing.
Thanks to Fox 17 News in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for including Sanford Founder Rae Green, JD, LPC, CAADC, in their coverage of the drug seizure. For the 2-minute video of this important development, please click the link or photo below:
“This is a disease that hijacks the brain and convinces the brain that it needs that addictive substance to survive.” Rae Green, JD, LPC, CAADC
GRPD vice unit seizes enough fentanyl to kill Grand Rapids, Grandville in 1 bust
Fentanyl Statistics Michigan
- According to Deputy Chief Maycroft of the GRPD, “Fentanyl is an urgent threat to public safety.”
- Fentanyl has a high risk for addiction and dependence.
- Fentanyl causes respiratory distress and death when taken in high doses or combined with substances like alcohol, heroin, and cocaine.
- Grand Rapids police responded to 180 non-fatal overdose calls in the past two years (according to Maycroft, a “fraction” of total overdoses in the area).
- In 2023, there were 2,126 fentanyl overdose deaths in Michigan – 1527 men and 599 women.
- ย Fentanyl is the dominant substance detected in overdose deaths in rural Michigan since 2019.
- All overdose deaths in Michigan decreased by 5.7% in 2023 (5 times faster than the national average).
- Michigan’s Naloxone Direct Portal. was helpful in the decline in overdose deaths. The portal gives free opioid overdose reversal medication to community groups and helps boost the distribution of naloxone in high-risk areas.
- The state has also increased access to fentanyl and xylazine testing strips so that users can detect dangerous substances and reduce their risk of overdose.
- The vast majority of fentanyl overdose deaths involve illegal fentanyl.
- Download the Fentanyl Fact Sheet.
- Fentanyl analogs are illegal (and often deadly) alterations to medically prescribed fentanyl.
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