Drug landscape: Synthetics are for real

Editor's note: This is the first in a two-part series examining the drug issue in Shelbyville. Look for more in Saturday's newspaper.

For more than a decade, Shelbyville Police Department Chief Keith England has seen the effects of drugs in communities.

"I have seen the devastation and heartache that drugs cause, not only the user but the entire family. It is a shame," he said.

As a result of his job, he deals with drug offenders daily while trying to keep the City of Shelbyville safe.

Shelby County Prosecutor Kent Apsley echoed England's sentiments.

"We are no different than any other community in the state of Indiana or the country, for that matter," he said.

England said his department is working on the fight against drugs locally.

"We are not putting our heads in the sand and acting like we don't have a problem. We have four K-9 units, and we are very fortunate to have the support from the prosecutor's office, the Shelby County Drug-Free Coalition, as well as grants from the state and the support from the (city) council," England said.

Apsley said the impact is noticeable.

"From a criminal justice side, we are very proactive on enforcement, we take those instances very seriously," Apsley said.

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Drug landscape: Synthetics are for real