March 19, 2024

Drug Initiative Program, K-9 unit will make a difference in Newton

Ask any member of the Newton City Council what concern they hear about most often, and they will most will likely identify our city’s drug problem.

Communities across Iowa and our nation struggle with the exact same issues. Yet some police departments have more resources than others.

That’s why we were pleased when city council recently approved more than $56,000 in start-up costs for a narcotics K-9 unit. In the time period that has followed, thousands of dollars in donations from local residents and organizations have meant this program has secured funds to facilitate the program.

The Newton Police Department is certainly in need of better resources to combat drug activity in our community. Having a K-9 unit will mean stronger enforcement efforts can become a reality.

Perhaps more important is the vision laid out by Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess in his Drug Initiative Program. While the K-9 unit is the largest element of enforcement efforts, the NPD will also target education, treatment and rehabilitation.

The NPD plans to roll out a new education and prevention program by spring of 2017. This is anticipated to replace the now defunct DARE program that dissolved in 2010. Meanwhile, a jail diversion program that focuses on rehabilitation and treatment has been in place since October. In partnership with Optimae Life Services, the program helps locals suffering from mental health and substance abuse and minimizes or prevents their incarceration.

On average, the Newton Police Department files more than 320 narcotics-related charges and responds to more than 207 incidents related to drugs each year in Newton. However, the full impact of substance abuse is too great to be calculated. Responses to domestic assault, child abuse, car crashes, fights and suicide oftentimes have some link to substance abuse.

Recent efforts by local businesses — particularly Montana Mike’s, who organized a large-scale fundraising event, should be applauded. As community members who are invested in the future of Newton, we should continue to support the K-9 unit in any way we can.