Town of Islip Talks About Heroin Use and Gangs

Islip Town Supervisor Phil Nolan and Councilwoman Trish Bergin Weichbrodt  recently held  an educational seminar on heroin and gang awareness, entitled "Bridging the Gap," seeking to educate parents, teachers, and children on the dangers and signs of heroin abuse and gang membership.  The speakers included Victor and Doreen Ciappa, whose daughter, Natalie, died from heroin use.

"These are difficult times for parents; keeping our kids safe has become harder than ever," said Supervisor Nolan.  "Our goal tonight is to educate parents and young people alike not only on the dangers of drug abuse and gangs, but how to tell if someone you know is headed down a dangerous path."

A number of guest speakers were in attendance at the symposium. The Ciappas spoke about being aware of your child's hangouts and friends and looking for changes in behavior.  A Suffolk County Police Officer who spoke about the most common gangs found on Long Island, offered tips on how to recognize the signs that a child is in a gang.  A Drug Enforcement Administration Agent discussed what every parent and teacher should know about heroin, and an addiction specialist provided information on rehabilitation, addiction and treatment.

"Our communities have been hit with the troubling reality that heroin and gangs are taking over our neighborhoods, and we are all working hard to do something about it," stated Councilwoman Bergin Weichbrodt. "This seminar is just one step in what will be a long fight against the dangers of drug abuse and gang violence facing our communities today."