Drug Test - Hyannis, MA

Hyannis, MA - Drug Testing

Life and People in Hyannis

Cape Cod resident Kim Powers is waging a one-woman harm-reduction war in the area. Powers, who was formerly the health outreach coordinator for drug users at the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod (ASGCC), now works by herself handing out clean syringes, fentanyl test strips, and Narcan as well as providing other services to local drug addicts. After working in the drug harm reduction field for 20 years, she says she's "seen it all."

The purpose of drug harm reduction is to help addicts who are not yet ready to quit, keeping them as safe as possible. Since she was unable to get a formal organization to support her efforts, she has spearheaded her own personal campaign. Each week, she visits area cities, including Hyannis, Yarmouth, and Dennis, handing out supplies and providing outreach services. She has created an organization, called AccessHope, and is seeking grants to continue her efforts.

Substance Abuse Trends and Statistics for Massachusetts

In 2021, the rate of opioid-related deaths in Massachusetts hit an all-time high, jumping by about 9%. In Hyannis and the rest of Barnstable County, there were nearly 80 overdose deaths in 2021. While this increase was less than the 15% increase experienced nationwide over the same period, the state's Health Commissioner Margret R. Cooke says that the issue is "very problematic for Massachusetts."

However, it's not all bad news. Preliminary data found that in the first nine months of 2022, opioid-related deaths in Mass had decreased by 1.5%, despite an increase in illegal drugs contaminated with the dangerous substance fentanyl.

Notable Events Related to Drug Use in Hyannis

The streets of Hyannis are a bit safer now that two members of a local heroin trafficking ring have been sentenced to prison for their roles in a violent kidnapping. The men were part of a crew that distributed large amounts of heroin around the area, including Hyannis and the rest of Cape Cod. The kidnapping and assault occurred because the men mistakenly believed the victim had been cooperating with law enforcement. The two were sentenced to 10 years and 9 years in prison under a variety of charges, including conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.

Last updated 5/16/2023