No fentanyl related arrests made in October on Big Island

Hawai‘i Police Department reports there were no fentanyl related arrests made islandwide during the month of October.

Police recovered a total of 5.1 grams of illicit fentanyl last month; zero fentanyl pills were recovered.

That 5.1 grams is enough to kill 2,550 Hawai‘i County residents.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency says just 2 milligrams of illicit fentanyl, equal to a couple of grains of salt, is a lethal dose.

The use of illicit fentanyl has reached epidemic proportions in recent years on the mainland and in Hawai‘i.

Criminal drug networks are mixing the dangerous synthetic opioid into illegal counterfeit pills and selling them as legitimate prescription pills, often with deadly consequences.

Fentanyl safety

• For fentanyl safety tips, how to recognize fentanyl poisoning and more, visit the Hawai‘i Police Department website.

Have a drug tip?

• If you have information relating to illicit drug use and/or distribution; issues such as prostitution, gambling; or other related crimes, Hawai‘i Police Department encourages you to call the 24-hour anonymous Vice tip hotline.

What number do I call?

• Call 808-329-“ZERO-ICE” (808-329-0423) with information from Kaʻū, Kona or South or North Kohala.
• Call 808-934-VICE (8423) with information from Puna, South Hilo or Hāmākua.

How does the hotline work?

• You will be asked to provide information when you call. You do not have to provide your name, address or telephone number. All information is kept confidential and within the Hawai‘i Police Department Criminal Investigation Division.

What happens to the information I provide?

• Information is cross-referenced so detectives can determine if more information related to the criminal activity about which you are calling has been reported in the past. Even small bits of information can provide the “missing link” detectives need to take action.

Hawai‘i Police Department provides these monthly fentanyl arrest updates as part of its continuing outreach to raise awareness about the dangers of the drug.

Hawai‘i Police Department is committed to continuing the fight against illegal narcotics on the island and apprehending those who distribute and sell them.