Dear Editor:
The investigative report on the Opioid Crisis by Reagan McSwain is in my opinion one of the finest, most informative street level reports that I have seen in a very long time.
Over the years, and notably when I was the chief, I reviewed many reports on the drug crisis published by those who were professionals in their fields.
Although useful, they were what I called sterile reports. They reported on what others had already done, but this report is different.
I say ‘street level’ because Reagan has done just that — gone to the streets to report on the crisis, spoken to the workers in the trenches and reported on the violence that takes places at times and on the stress placed upon those who are trying to make a difference.
I have always enjoyed reading the Sarnia Journal because it is a community newspaper. This report does just that, reporting on the drug crisis in the local area, but a report that reflects what is going on in other parts of the province.
COVID certainly did not help the crisis.
This report is one reason why the province should drop the plan to have health units blended. The crisis in each county of the province speaks to why health units should remain local. I hope that this report receives whatever recognition possible for its integrity and investigation. A report that could be referenced by many.
Phil Nelson
Retired, Chief
Sarnia Police Service