PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — There are always unintended consequences when laws are changed. As Oregon’s recriminalization of drugs takes effect this day , Blanchet House Executive Director Scott Kerman has one big fear.
He fears people won’t stop using drugs. They will just once again hide it.
Law enforcement braces for Oregon law criminalizing hard drugs starting Sunday
“The risk there, of course, is that if someone goes into an overdose, no one might see that happening and then can’t call for help,” Kerman told KOIN 6 News. “We’re going to be very vigilant with regards to our surroundings — doing parking lot checks, making sure that people aren’t being unsafe in locations where otherwise they might not be rescued if they need it.”
As of Sunday, adults who are found with small amounts of controlled drugs like meth and fentanyl will be given a choice: go to a deflection center or go to jail.
Portland Police Chief Bob Day said the bureau is “committed to participating in the enforcement of the law.”