Heroin, Opioid Overdose Deaths On The Rise In New York

A report issued by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli shows overdose deaths related to heroin and opioid abuse reached record highs in New York state in 2014.

DiNapoli says the overdose rates in New York rose faster than in nearly every other state for which data is available.

Oneida County had one of the highest heroin overdose death rates in the state.

The report shows overdose deaths in New York, in which heroin was a factor, reached a record-high 825 in 2014.

“Heroin and prescription opioid addiction often come with disastrous consequences, tearing apart families and causing financial ruin,” said DiNapoli. “While New York state and some local governments have taken important steps to reduce heroin and opioid abuse, the costs associated with this epidemic are growing and the health, safety and prosperity of our communities are at risk.”