Describing last week’s two heroin arrests as only the “tip of the iceberg,” Princeton Police Chief Nick Sutter is certain this problem “is not going away any time soon.”

“People are turning to heroin because of the price,” Mr. Sutter said. “There has been a huge spike in the cost of pills, prescription pain killers, and heroin is a cheaper alternative. It has become the second most popular street drug after marijuana.”

Princeton Police made two arrests last Tuesday, November 24 at a John Street residence: Jordan Walden, 22, of Princeton for possession with intent to distribute С also possession of marijuana, cocaine, and prescription legend drugs; and Laura Sliwa, 19, for possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia. The drug distribution charges were within 1000 feet of school property and within 500 feet of a public park and public housing. Both were taken to Mercer County Correctional Center, with $225,000 bail for Mr. Walden, $10,000 bail with a 10 percent posting option for Ms. Sliwa. 

According to Mr. Sutter, five people have been arrested in Princeton this year for possession of heroin, one of them also for distribution, and there have been five cases of heroin overdose reported in Princeton this year, with one of the five resulting in death.

Good Samaritan legislation in New Jersey provides criminal immunity for the caller and the people in need, so in the case of users, the person who has overdosed is usually treated by medical authorities rather than police authorities.

Every police car carries a Narcan kit to treat overdose victims. There have been two cases this year where victims were aided by the use of the Narcan antidote that counteracts the opiate effects of heroin.

Mr. Sutter sees usage in Princeton mostly among people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, though nationwide, he warns, heroin use is rapidly growing among younger users.

The PPD is currently working with health professionals at Corner House and the Princeton Alcohol and Drug Alliance to combat the spread of heroin use. Mr. Sutter sees prevention through education as the best way to counter this threat. “Unfortunately though,” he said, “more people have turned to heroin. You cannot arrest your way out of this problem.”

“Through continued education and interdiction,” Police Sergeant Steve Riccitello added, “hopefully the numbers will drop.” Mr. Riccitello emphasized that “police rely heavily on information provided by the public, Call us with any information you may have.”