DA Hoovler discusses Operation Frostbite
GOSHEN – A one-month undercover investigation across several jurisdictions
in Orange County has resulted in
43 arrests in what law enforcement officials have dubbed “Operation
Frostbite.”
Those arrested were charged with trafficking heroin, cocaine, marijuana,
and prescription medications including hydrocodone.
The first countywide drug enforcement action this year, this was the fifth
since District Attorney David Hoovler took office over a year ago.
Seized as a result were over a kilogram of heroin, plus cocaine, hydrocodone,
and marijuana with a collective street value of more than $330,000, said
Hoovler, who said three loaded handguns, a rifle and two shotguns were
also seized.
The drug epidemic is having its human consequences, said Hoovler.
“Last year there were 76 overdoses in Orange County; 28 deaths just
here in Orange County. We are losing an entire generation of people to
this epidemic and we need to do a better job of understand what is driving
it, what is causing it and how to treat it,” the DA said.
Law enforcement said it has become easier to purchase heroin and at a
cheaper cost, making it more prosperous for drug dealers to acquire and
peddle drugs.
Wallkill Town Supervisor Daniel Depew noted the drug epidemic transcends
socio-economic and ethnic bounds and is affecting children, the middle
class and families.
Port Jervis Mayor Kelly Decker said his city has increased drug arrests
by 68 percent because of aggressive police work in tandem with the DA’s
Office and sheriff’s office, which have launched a drug task force
in recent months.
