Arrests make law enforcement more watchful

After two people were arrested for possession of heroin in Owen County, Owenton Police Chief Terry Gentry is concerned the use of heroin may be on the rise in Owen County.

The two arrests were made within days of each other.

Eugene F. Wolpert was arrested on Feb. 28 and charged with first-degree possession of heroin.

The second suspect, whose name is part of an ongoing investigation was arrested on March 2 and charged with first-degree possession of heroin.

Gentry said two different kinds of heroin were found.

“It’s disturbing to me that we found two different types,” Gentry said. “One type we hadn’t seen in a long time.”

Gentry said a heroin problem first became noticeable in Owenton about five years ago.

“During a five-year period, we’ve had three deaths caused by heroin use,” Gentry said.

Gentry said large quantities are not found in Owenton, and those using heroin are receiving it from other areas.

“You won’t find a lot of heroin in Owenton,” Gentry said. “But the use is definitely present.”

Owenton Mayor David “Milkweed” Wotier also showed concern.

“We realize that there is still a drug problem in Owenton,” Wotier said. “However, if we didn’t have our task force, it would be a lot worse than it is now.”

Gentry said parents should always keep a close eye on teens and young adults who may be susceptible to drug abuse.

“Watch for unusual behavior,” Gentry said. “Protect your children and be involved in their lives.”

Wotier said keeping drugs off the streets today would benefit the children of Owenton in the future.

“The drugs that we keep off of the street today are the drugs that we keep out of children’s hands tomorrow,” Wotier said.