Statistics show that more people are using heroin in Colorado.
As a greater number of people have become addicted to prescription painkillers in Colorado, a similar rise in the number of people using heroin has been noted.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, over 5 percent of Colorado's residents used prescription painkillers in a manner not prescribed by a physician in 2012.
During the last half decade, the number of people in Colorado who use heroin has doubled.
Experts note that these statistics are related. Prescription pain medication is expensive, when not covered by an individual's health insurance policy. According to one Colorado resident, one OxyContin pill can cost around $50. In addition, officials in Colorado are participating in a program run by the National Governors Association to reduce the number of people abusing prescription medications.
As a result, many people who were using prescription pain pills have turned to heroin to alleviate the symptoms of withdrawal.
From 2000 to 2012, the number of people who died as a result of a heroin overdose in Colorado doubled. In 2012, over 90 people died due to heroin use. Those between the ages of 20 and 34 were most at risk of dying from a heroin overdose. In fact, about one-third of the fatalities in 2012 were people between the ages of 25 and 34 in Colorado.
In addition to a rise in heroin overdoses, officials have noted that more people are seeking treatment for heroin use in Colorado. During the last 10 years, the number of people in treatment for addiction to the drug has tripled in the state. In 2013, over 4,555 people were involved in treatment programs for heroin use in Colorado, according to CBS Denver.
Fight drug charges in Colorado
Those who are found in possession of heroin in Colorado run the risk of facing felony criminal charges. People convicted of heroin possession in the state can face serious consequences, which can follow them for years to come. Individuals can face prison time following a conviction. In addition, a heroin possession conviction can lead to fines of up to $500,000, in the most serious cases.
The penalties associated with a conviction for heroin possession in Colorado can be severe. People charged with possession of heroin in Colorado should take steps to fight the charges. If you or someone you love is in such a situation, consider talking to an experienced criminal defense attorney, who will work on your behalf to establish a strong defense.
