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Syvertsen J. Looking into the black mirror of the overdose crisis: Assessing the harms of collaborative surveillance technologies in the United States response. Med Anthropol Q 2024. [PMID: 39145768 DOI: 10.1111/maq.12875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Drug overdose is a leading cause of death among adults in the United States, prompting calls for more surveillance data and data sharing across public health and law enforcement to address the crisis. This paper integrates Black feminist science and technology studies (STS) into an anthropological analysis of the collision of public health, policing, and technology as embedded in the US National Overdose Response Strategy and its technological innovation, the Overdose Detection Mapping Application Program (ODMAP). The dystopian Netflix series "Black Mirror," which explores the seemingly useful but quietly destructive potential of technology, offers a lens through which to speculate upon and anticipate the harms of collaborative surveillance projects. Ultimately, I ask: are such technological interventions a benevolent approach to a public health crisis or are we looking into a black mirror of racialized surveillance and criminalization of overdose in the United States?
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Syvertsen
- Department of Anthropology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
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Rouhani S, Winiker AK, Zhang L, Sherman SG, Bandara S. "What I should be doing is harm reduction, if I'm doing my job right": Engagement with harm reduction principles among prosecutors enacting drug policy reform in the United States. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 131:104541. [PMID: 39067354 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prosecutorial discretion to pursue or decline criminal charges is a powerful mechanism determining criminal justice outcomes among people who use drugs (PWUD). In the US, prosecutors are increasingly employing this tool to prevent arrest, incarceration, and subsequent health and social harms among PWUD. Many cite harm reduction as a basis for these reforms; however, the extent of prosecutors' knowledge and understanding of harm reduction principles, and how they are operationalized in the policy process, remains unclear. METHODS We assess references to and application of harm reduction in the policy design and implementation process of prosecutorial drug policy reform in 14 US jurisdictions. In-depth-interviews (N = 16) were conducted with elected prosecutors and their policy staff from November 2021-April 2022. Through initial structured analysis, policymakers' understanding and utilization of the term 'harm reduction' emerged as a salient theme which we conducted secondary thematic analysis to further explore. RESULTS While all participants identified as progressive, there was wide variation in their ideologies, policy provisions, and engagement with harm reduction principles. Eleven participants explicitly referred to 'reducing harms of drug use' or 'harm reduction' as guiding their policy approach; the remainder did not invoke 'harm reduction' by name but highlighted relevant concepts like racial equity and 'public health approaches' as core policy tenets. While some prosecutors demonstrated familiarity with traditional harm reduction principles (meeting PWUD where they are, reducing harms to them), others focused on harm to the wider community (the 'public,' businesses, etc). Invocation of harm reduction was not always consistent with specific policy provisions: prosecutors implemented policies ranging from unconditional non-prosecution of drug possession to diversion, some of which were odds with core harm reduction principles of dignity and justice (i.e., involving coercive treatment incentives/requirements). CONCLUSIONS As prosecutors shift their approach to redress the harms caused by drug criminalization, clarity is needed on what a harm reduction approach to using discretionary powers entails. Targeting reform-minded prosecutors with messaging on the principles, evidence base, and best practices of harm reduction is merited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Rouhani
- Department of Epidemiology, New York University School of Global Public Health, USA; Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA.
| | - Abigail K Winiker
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | - Leanne Zhang
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | - Sachini Bandara
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
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Dahlem CH, Patil R, Khadr L, Ploutz-Snyder RJ, Boyd CJ, Shuman CJ. Effectiveness of take ACTION online naloxone training for law enforcement officers. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2023; 11:47. [PMID: 37979100 PMCID: PMC10656891 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-023-00250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Training law enforcement officers (LEOs) to administer naloxone is a recommended strategy to reduce overdose deaths in the United States. To achieve this, an evidence-based and scalable naloxone training curriculum that is easy to use and readily scalable is needed. Convenient web-based training is a flexible method for delivering educational interventions particularly for LEOs who have irregular or shifting schedules. This study examined the effectiveness of a comprehensive web-based naloxone training that was created in partnership with LEOs on their knowledge, confidence, and attitudes regarding naloxone. METHODS From May 2019 to September 2020, five law enforcement departments from Michigan participated in web-based naloxone training. A total of 182 LEOs (77% male) were in the final sample based on matching pre-and post-test surveys. LEOs were assessed on knowledge, confidence, and attitudes towards naloxone. Negative binomial and Poisson regression was conducted to assess associations between knowledge, confidence, and attitudes towards naloxone before and after training. RESULTS Significant improvements in overdose knowledge and confidence were revealed across all departments with median (IQR) total composite scores for knowledge increasing from 35 (32, 37) to 40 (39, 42) (p < 0.01) and confidence increasing from 18.5 (15, 20) to 20 (20, 25) (p < 0.01). Median (IQR) attitude scores did not change. CONCLUSION Our web-based naloxone training was effective in improving knowledge and confidence for LEOs but did not significantly improve LEOs attitudes towards naloxone across most departments. The web-based format is readily scalable and quickly disseminated and meets the immediate need for LEO overdose training. Additional intervention is needed to address the negative attitudes of LEOs regarding naloxone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin Hwa Dahlem
- Center for the Study of Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Health, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, 400 N. Ingalls Rd Rm 3174, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Rohan Patil
- Center for the Study of Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Health, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, 400 N. Ingalls Rd Rm 3174, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Lara Khadr
- Applied Biostatistics Laboratory, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | | - Carol J Boyd
- Center for the Study of Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Health, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, 400 N. Ingalls Rd Rm 3174, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Clayton J Shuman
- Center for the Study of Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking and Health, Department of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Michigan, 400 N. Ingalls Rd Rm 3174, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of System Populations and Leadership, Ann Arbor, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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Ray B, Korzeniewski SJ, Mohler G, Carroll JJ, Del Pozo B, Victor G, Huynh P, Hedden BJ. Spatiotemporal Analysis Exploring the Effect of Law Enforcement Drug Market Disruptions on Overdose, Indianapolis, Indiana, 2020-2021. Am J Public Health 2023; 113:750-758. [PMID: 37285563 PMCID: PMC10262257 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2023.307291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Objectives. To test the hypothesis that law enforcement efforts to disrupt local drug markets by seizing opioids or stimulants are associated with increased spatiotemporal clustering of overdose events in the surrounding geographic area. Methods. We performed a retrospective (January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021), population-based cohort study using administrative data from Marion County, Indiana. We compared frequency and characteristics of drug (i.e., opioids and stimulants) seizures with changes in fatal overdose, emergency medical services nonfatal overdose calls for service, and naloxone administration in the geographic area and time following the seizures. Results. Within 7, 14, and 21 days, opioid-related law enforcement drug seizures were significantly associated with increased spatiotemporal clustering of overdoses within radii of 100, 250, and 500 meters. For example, the observed number of fatal overdoses was two-fold higher than expected under the null distribution within 7 days and 500 meters following opioid-related seizures. To a lesser extent, stimulant-related drug seizures were associated with increased spatiotemporal clustering overdose. Conclusions. Supply-side enforcement interventions and drug policies should be further explored to determine whether they exacerbate an ongoing overdose epidemic and negatively affect the nation's life expectancy. (Am J Public Health. 2023;113(7):750-758. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307291).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley Ray
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
| | - Steven J Korzeniewski
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
| | - George Mohler
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
| | - Jennifer J Carroll
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
| | - Brandon Del Pozo
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
| | - Grant Victor
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
| | - Philip Huynh
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
| | - Bethany J Hedden
- Bradley Ray is with RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC. Steven J. Korzeniewski is with the School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. George Mohler is with the Computer Science Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. Jennifer J. Carroll is with the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh. Brandon del Pozo is with the Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI. Grant Victor is with the School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. Philip Huynh and Bethany J. Hedden are with the Center for Behavioral Health and Justice, Wayne State University
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Banks DE, Scroggins S, Paschke ME, Shacham E, Nance M, Cavazos-Rehg P, Winograd RP. Examining Increasing Racial Inequities in Opioid Overdose Deaths: a Spatiotemporal Analysis of Black and White Decedents in St. Louis, Missouri, 2011-2021. J Urban Health 2023; 100:436-446. [PMID: 37221300 PMCID: PMC10323067 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-023-00736-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The third wave of the opioid overdose crisis-defined by the proliferation of illicit fentanyl and its analogs-has not only led to record numbers of overdose deaths but also to unprecedented racial inequities in overdose deaths impacting Black Americans. Despite this racialized shift in opioid availability, little research has examined how the spatial epidemiology of opioid overdose death has also shifted. The current study examines the differential geography of OOD by race and time (i.e., pre-fentanyl versus fentanyl era) in St. Louis, Missouri. Data included decedent records from the local medical examiners suspected to involve opioid overdose (N = 4420). Analyses included calculating spatial descriptive analyses and conducting hotspot analyses (i.e., Gettis-Ord Gi*) stratified by race (Black versus White) and time (2011-2015 versus 2016-2021). Results indicated that fentanyl era overdose deaths were more densely clustered than pre-fentanyl era deaths, particularly those among Black decedents. Although hotspots of overdose death were racially distinct pre-fentanyl, they substantially overlapped in the fentanyl era, with both Black and White deaths clustering in predominantly Black neighborhoods. Racial differences were observed in substances involved in cause of death and other overdose characteristics. The third wave of the opioid crisis appears to involve a geographic shift from areas where White individuals live to those where Black individuals live. Findings demonstrate racial differences in the epidemiology of overdose deaths that point to built environment determinants for future examination. Policy interventions targeting high-deprivation communities are needed to reduce the burden of opioid overdose on Black communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin E Banks
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-St. Louis, One University Blvd., 325 Stadler Hall, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Stephen Scroggins
- College for Public Health & Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, USA
- Taylor Geospatial Institute, St. Louis, USA
| | - Maria E Paschke
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-St. Louis, One University Blvd., 325 Stadler Hall, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Enbal Shacham
- College for Public Health & Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, USA
- Taylor Geospatial Institute, St. Louis, USA
| | - Melissa Nance
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-St. Louis, One University Blvd., 325 Stadler Hall, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Rachel P Winograd
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri-St. Louis, One University Blvd., 325 Stadler Hall, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Missouri Institute of Mental Health, University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, USA
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Post-overdose follow-up in the community with peer recovery specialists: the Lake Superior Diversion and Substance Use Response Team. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 6:100139. [PMID: 36994366 PMCID: PMC10040321 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Background As the overdose epidemic continues to worsen, nonfatal overdose calls for service represent a critical touchpoint for intervention. While most studies have focused on law enforcement led post-overdose follow-up, the current study describes the programmatic characteristics and outcomes of a non-law enforcement post overdose program comprised of peer specialists embedded within a local police department. Methods We examined information on 341 follow-up responses occurring over a 16-month study period using administrative data. We assessed programmatic characteristics including demographic information on clients, referral source, engagement type, and goal completion. Results The results indicate that over 60% of client referrals ended in the goal of in-person contact. Of those, about 80% went on to complete an engagement goal with the peer specialist. We found no significant variation in client demographics and referral source or follow-up engagement (in-person or not); however, client referrals from law enforcement first responders, the most common source, are significantly less likely to result in an in-person contact, though, if contact is made, similarly likely to complete an engagement goal. Conclusions Post overdose response programs that do not involve law enforcement are exceedingly rare. Given that some research has shown that police involvement in post overdose response can have unexpected, associated harms, it is important to assess the effectiveness of post overdose programs that do not involve the police. Findings here suggest that this type of program is successful at locating and engaging community members into recovery support services who have experienced an overdose.
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Pourtaher E, Payne ER, Fera N, Rowe K, Leung SYJ, Stancliff S, Hammer M, Vinehout J, Dailey MW. Naloxone administration by law enforcement officers in New York State (2015-2020). Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:102. [PMID: 36123614 PMCID: PMC9483860 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00682-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the need for wide deployment of effective harm reduction strategies in preventing opioid overdose mortality. Placing naloxone in the hands of key responders, including law enforcement officers who are often first on the scene of a suspected overdose, is one such strategy. New York State (NYS) was one of the first states to implement a statewide law enforcement naloxone administration program. This article provides an overview of the law enforcement administration of naloxone in NYS between 2015 and 2020 and highlights key characteristics of over 9000 opioid overdose reversal events. METHODS Data in naloxone usage report forms completed by police officers were compiled and analyzed. Data included 9133 naloxone administration reports by 5835 unique officers located in 60 counties across NYS. Descriptive statistics were used to examine attributes of the aided individuals, including differences between fatal and non-fatal incidents. Additional descriptive analyses were conducted for incidents in which law enforcement officers arrived first at the scene of suspected overdose. Comparisons were made to examine year-over-year trends in administration as naloxone formulations were changed. Quantitative analysis was supplemented by content analysis of officers' notes (n = 2192). RESULTS In 85.9% of cases, law enforcement officers arrived at the scene of a suspected overdose prior to emergency medical services (EMS) personnel. These officers assessed the likelihood of an opioid overdose having occurred based on the aided person's breathing status and other information obtained on the scene. They administered an average of 2 doses of naloxone to aided individuals. In 36.8% of cases, they reported additional administration of naloxone by other responders including EMS, fire departments, and laypersons. Data indicated the aided survived the suspected overdose in 87.4% of cases. CONCLUSIONS With appropriate training, law enforcement personnel were able to recognize opioid overdoses and prevent fatalities by administering naloxone and carrying out time-sensitive medical interventions. These officers provided life-saving services to aided individuals alongside other responders including EMS, fire departments, and bystanders. Further expansion of law enforcement naloxone administration nationally and internationally could help decrease opioid overdose mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Pourtaher
- New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute, New York, USA.
| | - Emily R Payne
- New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute, New York, USA
| | - Nicole Fera
- New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute, New York, USA
| | - Kirsten Rowe
- New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute, New York, USA
| | | | - Sharon Stancliff
- New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute, New York, USA
| | - Mark Hammer
- New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute, New York, USA
| | - Joshua Vinehout
- New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services, Albany, USA
| | - Michael W Dailey
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Albany Medical College, Albany, USA
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