Louisiana Directed 20% of Opioid Settlement Funds to Sheriffs Instead of Treatment, Investigation Finds
Source Summary
An investigation reveals that Louisiana allocated 20% of its opioid settlement funds to sheriffs' offices, which spent the money on law enforcement equipment and police technology rather than addiction treatment programs. The settlement funds were intended to address the opioid crisis through abatement efforts and recovery services.
Why it matters
Settlement funds designated for addiction treatment were redirected to law enforcement purchases, potentially reducing resources available for lifesaving opioid recovery programs.
