Opioid Response Program

Addressing the Opioid Crisis in Greenville County

The opioid epidemic has severely impacted our community, and Greenville County Deputies are on the front lines, responding daily to medical emergencies and witnessing its devastating effects. Since 2017, when Governor Henry McMaster declared the opioid epidemic a public health emergency, law enforcement agencies have intensified their efforts to combat this crisis. The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office is committed to partnering with other public service agencies and community groups to provide assistance and services to those affected by opioids.  The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office remains dedicated to protecting our community from the dangers of opioids and supporting those affected by this epidemic through our comprehensive response program.

2024 Greenville County Sheriff’s Office Opioid Overdose Statistics
NOTE: Overdose fatality numbers are included in the total event numbers. “Fatalities involving fentanyl” are included in the “Fatal overdose events”. Stats obtained from the Greenville County Coroner’s Office . Other data compiled from GCSO reporting systems

• 238 Overdose Incidents
• 118 Fatal overdose incidents
• 111 Fatal overdoses involving fentanyl
• 573 Officers trained in Narcan
• 78 Narcan administrations by GCSO

Understanding Opioids

Opioids are a class of drugs commonly prescribed for pain relief. These include both natural and synthetic substances, which are highly addictive and can be fatal if misused. Prescription opioids such as oxycodone and morphine should be used strictly under a doctor’s guidance and for limited durations. In recent years, fentanyl has become one of the most prevalent and dangerous opioids in the US. It can appear in various forms, such as liquids or powders, and is often mixed with other substances like heroin or pressed into pills that mimic other medications. The presence of fentanyl in drugs, often unknown to the user, significantly increases the risk of overdose. According to the National Institute of Health, approximately 80,411 people in the US died from an opioid overdose in 2021.

Recognizing Signs of an Overdose:  If you observe these signs in someone, it is crucial to seek emergency medical help immediately.  Call 911

Knowing the signs of an opioid overdose can save lives. Key indicators include:

• Small “pinpoint” pupils
• Loss of consciousness or appearing extremely tired
• Slow or no breathing
• Gurgling sounds
• Cool, cold, or clammy skin
• Presence of drug paraphernalia (syringes, spoons, needle caps, pipes, scales, baggies)

Greenville Community Resources