Lee County stands despite the nationwide decline

Lee County, Ky. (Lex 18) – Kentucky recorded a significant decline in overdose deaths last year, but the report on overdose of 2024 showed that Lee County has the highest rate of deaths for overdoses in the state per capita.

“Substance disorder is the biggest challenge for public health that we are now in the east of Kentucky,” said Scott Lockard, director of the public health system of the Ministry of Health at Kentucky River District.

“What I would like to see is not an overdose. We want everyone who suffers from drug abuse disorders receive the treatment and support that they need so that they can triumph through this disease,” he added.

According to the report, there were 1,410 deaths in Kentucky last year – a decline in just over 30%

According to Lockard, the health department works with community partners to combat the problem like the hub in Lee County, which was set up as a resource center for people who have to deal with drug abuse.

Kenneth Lewis, deputy coroner Lee County, noticed the types of drugs that contribute to the crisis.

“These drugs we are with are based on our toxicological reports, include methamphetamine and fentanyl, and we do not see a certain age group – those affected individual rich from 18 years to 60 or 65,” he said.

The municipality's reaction includes careful efforts by the local law enforcement authorities, civil servants of the public healthcare system and emergency services.

The sheriff of Lee County, Joe Lucas, commented: “We try to find out where the drugs come from, who brings them. When we find a source on the street, I call someone in this area to help.”

Lewis repeated the idea that drug abuse can affect everyone, regardless of their background.

“It doesn't matter who you are. It doesn't matter what background you come. Everyone is susceptible to it.”

The motto of the hub – “We meet them where they are, but we don't leave them there.”

Community leaders hope that with continued cooperation and support they can reduce the overdose rates and promote a healthier environment for all residents of Lee County.