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Key leaders discuss the changes in law and how the community treats drug use and the effects it is having on our young, family and community. Panelist from left to right are Kim Emery, Joe Helm, Madison Richardson, Wyntr McCauley, Guin Joyce, Dale Slack. Moderating the event was Coalition Director Kristen Thorstenson, left.
DAYTON–The Youth and Families Coalition presented a key leader conference to discuss the effects drugs have on our youth, their families, and community at the Liberty Theater, February 29. The panel of leaders included Kim Emery, the Columbia County Clinic Director, Columbia County Sheriff Joe Helm, Madison Richardson, and Wyntr McCauley, both youth leaders from Dayton High School, Dayton secondary principal Guin Joyce, and Dale Slack, Columbia County Prosecuting Attorney.
Each panel expert gave their perspective of how their profession, and/or personal experiences handle the drug challenges facing the community. Whether it be in the health field, schools, or even in the legal system.
Kim Emery refers to the issue of substance abuse as "substance misuse." Although one might typically think of drug issues happening in urban cities, it is also prevalent in rural communities, she stated. "The impact is great not only on the person who is using, but on the whole community in general," Emery said. "Here where community bonds are strong, it is crucial that we address this head-on to protect our community and our population." She indicated how substance misuse can affect the health of our youth and that substances can include prescription drugs, marijuana, meth, and even vaping.
By the time law enforcement gets involved, Sheriff Joe Helm stated, the person using is usually deep into the addiction, and more ways to work on prevention beforehand is needed. A current problem law enforcement is facing locally is "people involved with dealing and transporting drugs are targeting and focusing on the youth," Helm said. "They are making a diehard effort to get youth addicted and they start out with simple things such as vaping or drinking alcohol. It all creates addictive behavior."
Lax drug laws in Washington state are driving dealers and the cartel to our area, Helm said. Washington State holds the highest year-to-year overdose increase in the United States. Between March, 2022, to March, 2023, there were 600 more overdoses.
"We need a balanced approach, said Helm. "There needs to be consequences and help offered to those that want to change."
Both Madison Richardson and Wyntr McCauley spoke about how they have witnessed classmates struggle with substance abuse. "I am able to see high-risk substance abuse in my school and my community," said McCauley. "It is really sad." She believes many addictions start from causes at home and that although her school focuses on mental health, she believes they need to put more of an emphasis on substance use.
High School Principal Guin Joyce added that she has seen a change in the way both school staff and law enforcement can address substance abuse issues at the school. "Anytime that there is reasonable suspicion that a student has anything on them that they are not allowed to have, such as alcohol or a vape pen, I can actually go and take a look," said Joyce. She can look in their locker, their backpack, and even their car, whereas law enforcement must have probable cause.
"There are a lot of things that are really challenging because our laws have changed," Joyce said. Previously, she would call in law enforcement after searching, knowing exactly what students had, and together, have a conversation the student and their family. Then, it was more about education and understanding. But when she calls now, it is only to give a statement, because officers can't ask the student any questions. "That educational component is missing and that is hard." she said.
Prosecuting Attorney Dale Slack stated that the Sheriff's Office and the prosecutor's office enters the scene down the road when the problem gets out of hand. "We [Sheriff and Prosecutor] are the guys you pay later," said Slack. "If you don't invest up front to try and prevent it, then you are going to be paying Joe and me."
He agreed with both Sheriff Helm and Principal Joyce that changes in state laws have affected the way he can prosecute drug related crimes. He stated that in the justice system they do not want to punish people just for the act of using a controlled substance.
"I am a little bit of a libertarian," said Slack. "I believe that if you want to sit at home in your front room and do something that is only going to harm your body and nobody else, I hate to sound uncaring, but I could care less."
He remembered back to when he was a public defender and had conversations with clients who were affected by drugs and that drug use has side consequences such as the crimes of theft and breaking and entering.
Slack believes that mental health treatment is a big priority to trying to prevent repeat offenses. "There are three main things that we can do that are evidence driven and shown to prevent young people getting involved with drugs," Slack said. "Those three things are early education as young as preschool and Kindergarten, fully funded schools, and after-school programs.
The Coalition for Youth and Families also provides classes and resources for families and parents. And would like to invite you to join them for their Hidden in Plain Sight event on May 15.
