It's more powerful and deadly than ever. And now it's also cheap: One bag costs less than a pack of cigarettes.
Heroin has developed a frightening grip on Long Island's youth in a way not seen for decades.
Beginning Monday, Sept. 22 News 12 Long Island and Newsday will present a week long multi-media investigative report: Heroin: Addicted on Long Island.
The project will take a 360-degree look at the growing epidemic of heroin addiction. It includes stories of "good kids" sucked in by the drug, heartbroken families, the struggle to recover, law enforcement challenges, and how dealers are exploiting the web and social media. The coverage will also examine resource and policy issues, such as the scarcity of detox beds and health insurance companies that deny coverage for treatment.
Every night, victims, experts and activists will go "live" from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the News 12 Long Island Facebook page to share insights and answer questions from Long Islanders. The coverage will also feature "Heroin Diaries"---a series of uncut interviews with victims, parents and loved ones describing the scourge of heroin in their own words.
Numerous links to organizations that offer help will be available on the News 12 Long Island and Newsday websites, plus additional unedited interviews.
The Project at a Glance:
Heroin: Addicted on Long Island
Dates: 5-part News 12 Long Island series Monday-Friday, Sept. 22-26. Each part begins airing at 8am.
Newsday: Major coverage on Sunday, Sept. 21 followed by additional stories Sept. 22-26
All content available on News12.com and Newsday.com
Nightly Facebook Live Q&A with activists and experts, Monday-Friday 7 p.m.