Drug Testing in Newport News, Virginia

Newport News, Virginia - Drug Testing

Substance Abuse Trends for Newport News VA

Hospital emergency department admissions in Newport News have increased dramatically in recent years. In 2018, there were 7.3 admissions per 10,000 population. This skyrocketed to 20.9 in 2019 and 36.2 in 2020. In 2021, it decreased slightly, to 34.2. Compared to other parts of Virginia, Newport News is in the 2nd worst quartile. The city also has a higher rate of admissions than the average in the state of Virginia as a whole. In 2021, Newport News had the 4th highest number of ER admissions due to opioids, behind Poquoson City (36.7), York (44.2), and Portsmouth City (61.7).

Government Initiatives to Address Drug Problems in Newport News

The U.S. government is addressing the opioid crisis by cracking down on pharmacies for failing to properly dispense controlled substances. Hidenwood Pharmacy, Inc., located in Newport News, recently agreed to pay a $125,000 fine for allegedly failing to keep proper records as required under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). The owner of the pharmacy was also accused of failing to maintain a system to detect orders of unusual size or frequency as well as several other violations. The CSA regulations are in place, in part, to help protect the public from the dangers of substances such as opioids being diverted into the illicit market. This case is likely to set an example, encouraging other local pharmacies to ensure compliance.

Notable Events Related to Drug Use in Newport News

The city of Newport News is a bit safer, thanks to some recent court cases that have taken dealers and their drugs off the streets. In April of 2021, a Newport News drug trafficker pleaded guilty to receiving over 2,000 kg of cocaine that arrived hidden in tractor-trailers from California. He was charged with conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute and faced a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life. Five of his co-conspirators were previously convicted and sentenced to 9 to 27 years in prison for their roles in the trafficking conspiracy.

Police are also taking a hard stance against drug dealers involved in overdose deaths. In April of 2022, a jury convicted a Newport News man of multiple charges, including distributing fentanyl resulting in two drug overdoses. One of the victims died while the other was seriously injured. When he goes to sentencing, the man will face a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.

Last updated 8/31/2022