Trust Avenues to keep you in the loop.
Avenues Recovery Center is a drug and alcohol rehab in Virginia with 15 locations spanning seven U.S. states. Our robust blog is the go-to place for all things addiction-related – be it information, news, or resources in Virginia, we’ll keep you current with everything trending in your area.
When it comes to addiction, go to the go-to.
Wheeling Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger recently shared encouraging news with city officials regarding the effectiveness of the department's Crisis Response Unit, a new initiative aimed at tackling mental health and substance abuse issues in the community. The unit has been a major factor in addressing Wheeling’s opioid crisis, with the support of funding from West Virginia's Opioid Settlement Fund. The Intelligencer news site reported that Schwertfeger told members of the Wheeling City Council that the new program is already showing significant positive impacts on the city’s response to drug-related incidents.
The Crisis Response Unit, which has been bolstered by a $463,000 Opportunity Grant from the West Virginia First Foundation, is part of a broader statewide effort to combat opioid addiction. This initiative is unique, making Wheeling one of the first cities in the country to implement such a program within its police department. Schwertfeger shared that the department has embedded two Peer Recovery Support Specialists from First Choice Services, who have been working alongside law enforcement officers to assist individuals struggling with mental health and substance use issues. These embedded peers, along with two additional professional mental health social workers funded by the grant, have already made a visible difference.
This approach, which focuses on crisis intervention and recovery support rather than criminalization, is a key element of the city's efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Schwertfeger emphasized that the program is part of a larger, more comprehensive strategy that includes Crisis Intervention Training (CIT). This training helps officers recognize mental health and substance use disorders and teaches them how to connect individuals with the appropriate resources. The focus on de-escalation, rather than force, has been shown to reduce conflict in crisis situations.
The results from 2024 crime statistics indicate that the Crisis Response Unit is having a direct and positive impact. Overdose incidents in Wheeling dropped by 37%, and overdose deaths decreased by 46%. Street-level drug offenses also saw a reduction of around 18-20%. These figures demonstrate the effectiveness of the unit in addressing the opioid epidemic in the city.
In addition to the success of the Crisis Response Unit, Wheeling has been actively receiving funds from the opioid settlement money, which continues to support the city's efforts. The department has already used these funds for essential equipment and resources. Mayor Denny Magruder and City Council members have praised the police chief and his team for their dedication to the community’s well-being, with Councilman Ben Seidler noting that the unit’s approach to crisis intervention is both proactive and compassionate.
Looking ahead, the city is set to receive additional funding to continue supporting these efforts. Schwertfeger’s leadership, along with the team’s ongoing dedication, continues to inspire confidence that Wheeling is on the right track in addressing the opioid crisis.
If you or your loved one are struggling with opioid misuse, reach out to Avenues Recovery Centers to receive the help you deserve. We have a highly successful opioid addiction treatment program that has transformed the lives of thousands of people to date. Our staff are experts in addiction recovery and they will encourage and support you every step of the way to sobriety. Contact us today to begin your journey to the addiction-free future of your dreams.