MACHIAS, Maine — Recently, Brian Frutchey noticed an obituary for a young man who died of an overdose.
Frutchey, an opiate addict who has been clean for seven years, suddenly felt a need to do something to educate the public about addiction.
So he organized a forum for members of the community to talk and learn about addiction, ways to prevent drug abuse and what law enforcement officials are doing to curb drug use. It will take place at 6 p.m. April 9 at Washington Academy.
“I just posted something on Facebook and [the response] was overwhelming,” said Frutchey of Roque Bluffs.
“Learn what’s happening in Washington County from law enforcement, treatment, prevention and harm reduction professionals along with other recovery treatment providers,” reads one of his Facebook posts. “This is a chance for our community members to come together and share their experiences, perspectives and suggestions during the facilitated community discussion.”
Among those who plan to make presentations are representatives of the Washington County Sheriff’s Department, Machias Police Department, Arise Addiction Recovery, Aroostook Mental Health Center, state Rep. Will Tuell, R-East Machias, state Rep. Joyce Maker, R-Calais, and Healthy Acadia. A man who was treated at Arise Addiction Recovery also will present a testimonial, Frutchey said.
“Everybody wanted to help. Everybody wanted to be a part of [the forum],” he said.
Frutchey said he hopes that the forum will make area residents more comfortable with contacting police when they know about drug activity.
“People are afraid to come forward. People know who’s doing these things,” he said. “I’m hoping this … alleviates some of that.”
The forum is free and open to the public.