Local families, courts confront rise in heroin use

Unintentional drug overdoses in Michigan have quadrupled in the past decade. Much of that has been driven by an increase in opiate usage, including heroin. Many addicts start out hooked on prescription medication, but move to heroin because it is cheaper and more readily available. The problem touches an untold number of victims and their families.  Earlier this week, area leaders gathered at Michigan State University to address the growing problem.Current State discusses the impact of heroin and opiate addiction on the community with the honorable Donald Allen, a judge with Ingham County’s 55th District Court and a member of the county chapter of Families Against Narcotics, or FAN; and Wes Emerson and his son Aaron of Mason. Aaron is a recovering heroin addict.