Sarasota, Florida -- To help end the heroin addiction problem, the Sarasota County Jail has launched an opiate treatment program.
Inmates volunteer to receive a monthly shot of Vivitrol, it’s an opiate blocker and unlike other treatment drugs it is nonaddictive.
The inmates are chosen through the Drug Court and are serving time for nonviolent crimes. Jail officials say the program is designed to help end the cycle of crime and addiction and protect public safety.
“These repeat offenders go out they don’t receive treatment. They don’t receive care they need and are then more susceptible to repeat their behavior. This offers an opportunity to break that cycle,” says Major Jeff Bell with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office.
Inmates are responsible for continuing the program once they leave the jail under the guidance of the drug court and Centerstone a drug rehab center.
Here is more on inmates and drug use:
