BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - The US Attorney in Western New York said that overdoses are on the rise throughout Western New York.
JP Kennedy said that Erie County reported 110 drug overdoses since March 1. Of those overdoses, 36 people have died.
"I think we need to consider the role that social isolation coupled with non-stop reporting on the pandemic may have on the feelings of desperation and hopelessness among those struggling with substance abuse," Kennedy said in a statement. "Amidst the current crisis, we need to remember that substance abuse existed long before COVID-19, and it will likely remain long after we have wiped out the virus."
More than 1,500 people in Erie County have contracted COVID-19, though leaders in the community have repeatedly said that the number is likely higher due to the lack of testing availability in the area.
Authorities this week announced the arrest of an alleged heroin dealer who was taken into custody after months of surveillance. James Terrell now faces the possibility of life in prison and a $10 million fine.
Terrell, 35, first came under the radar from authorities when he was found with more than $80,000 in cash. He was arrested again on Thursday with possessing bricks of heroin.