Congressman William Timmons Welcomes L.E.A.D. to Panel Event Highlighting Opioid Crisis

On Thursday, April 21, Congressman William Timmons (SC-04) welcomed L.E.A.D. Chief Operating Officer of Fund Development John Lindsay to a panel discussion featuring executives, nonprofit leaders, and local law enforcement officials discussing ways to combat the opioid epidemic through public-private partnerships in South Carolina and across the United States.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced a staggering 100,000+ drug-related deaths in the past year. In South Carolina, data released by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control last month showed opioid-involved overdose deaths increased by 59% from 2019 to 2020; and the total number of all drug overdoses increased by 53%.

“It was a pleasure to host L.E.A.D. in South Carolina’s 4th Congressional District to highlight the innovative ways they are addressing the drug crisis in the Palmetto State and across the country,” Congressman Timmons stated. “As a member of Congress, I am proud of the actions I have taken in Washington on behalf of my constituents to combat overdose deaths, but it will take more than just government to turn the tide of this epidemic. L.E.A.D. is a shining example of the public-private collaborations that will stop the scourge of illicit drugs and help save American lives.”

Joining Lindsay on the panel were Former Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Jim Carroll, Phoenix Center Director of Outpatient Services Michael McLain, NarcX Vice President Doug Bowman, President and Provost of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM), Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, ERPHealth CEO Eric Gremminger, RIZE Prevention Executive Director Martine Henlou, and representatives from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office.

“It was an honor to join Congressman Timmons and the esteemed group of leaders he convened, all working to end the United States drug crisis,” L.E.A.D. Chief Operating Officer of Fund Development John Lindsay stated. “Deepening relationships with law enforcement and local communities is key to ensuring people struggling with addiction connect with recovery services. I was proud to share the mission of L.E.A.D. with such an engaged audience, and to discuss the critical role law enforcement plays in providing those struggling with substance use disorder with the care they need.”

About L.E.A.D.: L.E.A.D. provides the leadership, resources and management to ensure law enforcement agencies have the means to partner with educators, community leaders, and families. L.E.A.D. succeeds by providing proven and effective programs to deter youth and adults from drug use, drug related crimes, bullying and violence. L.E.A.D. is committed to reinforcing the mutual respect, goodwill and relations between law enforcement and their communities.

For more information on L.E.A.D, please visit leadrugs.org.