The Local Lens

Forensic Chemistry - Rebecca Stone from the Kentucky State Police

August 03, 2022 The Local Lens Season 3 Episode 26
The Local Lens
Forensic Chemistry - Rebecca Stone from the Kentucky State Police
Show Notes

The Local Lens is a public health podcast going inside one community's experience with the drug epidemic. Everyone in the town of Stanton, KY sees this drug issue differently from each other, either because of their personal lives or professional roles. This show aims to showcase those different perspectives by having honest, in-depth interviews.

There is a chase happening in the world of chemistry. The list of drugs and chemicals being abused is growing so fast that no one can truly keep up. We are all aware of fentanyl at this point, but what most people do not realize is that fentanyl is an umbrella-term for a whole category of drugs.

The terrifying fact is this: most people are unaware of the chemical mixtures out there. If someone thinks they are taking a Xanax pill, it could very easily be a counterfeit pill made with 5 different kinds of fentanyl.

It is nearly impossible for anyone to know exactly what drugs and chemicals they are buying or selling. One place that can tell what is in a drug is the Kentucky State Police's forensic lab. On this episode, chemist Rebecca Stone tells us about the changing drug landscape from a chemical perspective. This science-heavy episode is not meant to bring a level of understanding, but just a basic awareness of what is out there.

These are our people, using our voices, telling our stories, because no one sees it like we do.

24-Hour Crisis Line: 1-800-562 8909

Visit findhelpnowky.org to find treatment options for you in Kentucky.

Need help now? Call the Mountain Comp Care 24-Hour Helpline: 1-800-422-1060

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The Local Lens is sponsored by Kentucky Opioid Community Healing (from the Kentucky Rural Health Information Organization) and Powell County CARES (from the Powell County Health Department).

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