Sheriff Arteta joins national public service campaign to help communities respond to substance use disorder

Orange County Sheriff Paul Arteta joined a nationwide public service campaign led by the National Sheriffs’ Association to help communities respond to substance use disorder with prevention, treatment, recovery and support. As part of the initiative, Sheriff Arteta recorded a Public Service Announcement, which is now being distributed for broadcast on television, radio and digital platforms.

The message is direct: substance use disorder is a health condition, prevention works, treatment is effective and recovery is possible.

“Sheriffs witness the impact of substance use disorder on individuals, families, and entire communities,” said Arteta. “We observe its effects in homes, during patrols, in emergency calls, within jails, and in the courts. This issue is not about assigning blame or viewing it as a failure; it is about providing individuals and families with better information before a crisis leads to an arrest, an overdose, or a tragedy.”

Sheriff Arteta emphasized that the campaign is designed to encourage families to take action earlier and to help connect individuals in the community with the necessary support.

“People shouldn’t have to wait for an emergency call, a jail booking, or an overdose to know where to seek help,” he stated. The campaign also promotes stronger collaboration among law enforcement, corrections, courts, healthcare providers, treatment professionals, recovery organizations, and community partners. “Law enforcement cannot solve this crisis alone,” Arteta explained.

Residents are encouraged to learn the signs of substance use disorder, talk with their families, support prevention, support treatment, and support recovery. If your community needs opioid or substance use disorder education and training, help is available. Visit the National Sheriffs’ Association at www.sheriffs.org/opioideducation.