Independence bands together to fight heroin after 4 overdoses in 8 weeks

INDEPENDENCE, Ohio - Four people have died from heroin overdoses in the city of Independence in eight weeks.

"In my time, I have never seen multiple overdoses like this, " said Police Chief John Nicastro.

Nicastro said heroin is a cheaper alternative to prescription painkillers. It is infiltrating communities across the country, state and region.

"It has become a problem in the suburbs, following on the heels of prescription drug abuse, the replacement is heroin. We never used to see it in the suburbs," Nicastro said.

The city is so concerned about the problem that they are partnering with churches, schools and police for a public meeting.

"It is highly, highly addictive and one use can cause addiction or death," said Angie Zeleznik, who is organizing a public meeting on the issue.  The city has already published information about the problem in their newsletter and schools have sent home letters warning parents about the dangerous problem.

Nicastro said officers are out in force. Police have searched the high school twice, Nicastro said, but did not find any drugs.

The public hearing will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday evening Jan. 19. It will take place at the auditorium at the middle school.

"Our families are being deeply impacted by heroin," said Pastor Donna Barrett of Rockside Church.

The schools, police, city and churches will be represented at the meeting.