Medical Examiner: Heroin overdose deaths in Milw. Co. up 600%

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office says heroin deaths in Milwaukee County are up 600 percent from 10 years ago.

In 2013, there were 67 heroin overdose deaths in Milwaukee County.

In 2012, there were 50 -- compared to 44 in 2011.

Ten years ago, Milwaukee County recorded just nine heroin overdose deaths.

Numbers for 2014 are not yet available.

First responders say they don't need any more proof of just how bad the heroin problem is. They see it every day.

Inside the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Toxicology Laboratory, the blood of Milwaukee County overdose victims is analyzed.

Forensic Toxicology Director Sara Schreiber says more and more often, results in this laboratory identify heroin as the cause of death.

"I think that we are surprised too, by the age range of individuals we see this drug use in. It varies from teenage type years to people in their 60s," Schreiber said.

There is not one specific demographic that can be the focus of drug education and prevention. There is no one kind of heroin user.

"There really are no boundaries where abuse is concerned," Lt. Linda Mattrisch with the Milwaukee Fire Department said.

Lt. Mattrisch has 30 years of experience treating overdose victims. She says she has seen a rise in heroin use firsthand.

Lt. Mattrisch says while new medicine to reverse the effects of an overdose is saving lives, it might not translate into preventing future abuse.

"Recently have seen the same person twice, on more than one occasion and that message is not necessarily getting through," Lt. Mattrisch said.

First responders continue to use new tools and strategies to save the lives of overdose victims.

"The EMTs and paramedics in our department know how to recognize, treat and get you where you need to be to get help," Lt. Mattrisch said.

The numbers show there are more and more people needing help fighting heroin.

"I'm fearful we're going to see a percentage increase again in 2013-2014. Hopefully we can get on top of this and do some prevention and get the word out," Schreiber said.

The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's Office says the heroin people are using today is more potent than it was years ago -- and that can certainly contribute to a lethal overdose -- particularly when it comes to novice users.

Earlier this month, Gov. Scott Walker signed seven bills targeting the state's heroin epidemic.

The bills are collectively known as the HOPE legislation — or Heroin Opiate Prevention and Education. All seven bills were authored by Rep. John Nygren, R-Marinette.

The new laws would do the following:

Gov. Walker also signed a bill that will create regional drug treatment facilities and a bill that creates a system of short-term sanctions for parole and probation violators.