The discovery of over 80 grams of fentanyl in Tanner Springs Park, Portland, has ignited outrage and concern among residents. A local mother stumbled upon the synthetic opioid, both in powder and pill form, prompting community leaders to demand increased safety measures.
Tom Karwaki, chair of the University Park Neighborhood Association, expressed his dismay, stating that the quantity of fentanyl found far exceeds personal use and highlights the widespread nature of the drug crisis. He emphasized that no playground in the country feels safe anymore. Karwaki's comments came during an interview on "Fox & Friends," where he shared the community's collective outrage.
While Portland decriminalized personal drug use in 2020, Mayor Ted Wheeler is now proposing a ban on public drug consumption. This ordinance would impose fines of up to $500 and potential jail time for offenders. Karwaki acknowledged the city's recent cleanup initiatives but stressed the need for more significant changes. He urged residents to remain vigilant, dispose of discarded drugs responsibly, and report sightings to authorities.
The dangers of fentanyl are well-documented. According to the CDC, it is significantly more potent than heroin and morphine, accounting for a substantial portion of overdose fatalities in recent years. Karwaki revealed that his neighborhood alone has experienced six overdoses, underscoring the urgency of the situation. He called for increased accountability from public officials, advocating for staffed, clean, and regularly patrolled playgrounds across the city and nationwide.
