CADCA will play an instrumental role in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) comprehensive new 360 Strategy to address heroin, opioid abuse, and violent crime.

“CADCA commends the DEA for recognizing education and prevention are key elements to addressing the heroin and opioid abuse epidemic in this country, and we are proud to join the DEA’s comprehensive 360 Strategy. CADCA will bring its expertise in building effective community coalitions and facilitating valuable dialogues to the initiative to empower communities and support demand reduction,” said Gen. Arthur T. Dean, CADCA Chairman and CEO.

According to the DEA, the goals of the new strategy include stopping the deadly cycle of prescription opioid and heroin abuse by eliminating the drug trafficking organizations and gangs fueling violence on the streets and addiction in communities.  The strategy will also include partnering with healthcare professionals and engaging and strengthening community and social service organizations that are best positioned to provide long-term help and support for building drug-free communities. DEA’s Philadelphia Field Division recently announced that the 360 strategy will launch in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Other partners who are participating in the 360 strategy include the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Pennsylvania, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, DEA Educational Foundation, U.S. Department of Justice’s Violence Reduction Network, The Elks Club, U.S. Department of Health & Humans Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids.