FAIRHOPE — The City of Fairhope has received $200,000 to combat the fentanyl crisis in Baldwin County that is affecting communities across the nation.

According to a report by the Alabama Law Enforcement Survey, fentanyl and other opioids posed the greatest drug threat across the state in 2023. Fentanyl and methamphetamine are increasing in abuse, and fentanyl is seen mixed in or disguised in illegal drugs.

In 2021, Mobile and Baldwin Best HIDTA Office (HIS) arrested 291 people for drug possession, and 1,102.81 kilograms of total drugs were seized.
The report also showed that methamphetamine, fentanyl and other opioids are the leading drugs associated with violent crime in Alabama.

According to the Alabama Department of Mental Health, there were 150 admissions into treatment centers for the abuse of fentanyl in 2020. This number increased by 178% in 2021, with 417 people admitted into treatment centers.

In the Baldwin County Coroner's annual report for the fiscal year 2022-23, 75 people died from overdosing, with 48 of those involving fentanyl.

In the same fiscal year, the average age of an person who died from fentanyl was 39.

This $200,000, which will be congressionally directed as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024, was secured with the help of U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and will be used to ensure local law enforcement has the resources and support to combat the problem.

“Thanks to Sen. Tuberville, this strategic funding will help our local law enforcement combat the rise of fentanyl in our community. Unfortunately, we have heard from too many in our region that have a loved one that has been negatively impacted by this dangerous drug,” Mayor Sherry Sullivan said in a news release. “It is my hope that these funds will help save lives and improve the well-being of our city.”

Fairhope Chief of Police Stephanie Hollingshead said this funding will help support the community.

“Thank you, Sen. Tuberville," Hollingshead said in a news release, "for your commitment to supporting the community and providing individuals with substance use issues access to quality immediate and follow-up care through training and valuable resources, ensuring positive outcomes for everyone."