COLUMBUS, Ohio — Seven people were arrested earlier this week and more than 50 received help for mental health and addiction issues during the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office’s latest operations to target drugs and crime.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office announced the results of “Operation BRIDGE,” an initiative that targets drugs and crime, and “Operation Unity,” which aims to recover drugs and apprehend violent criminals.
Operation BRIDGE was held on Oct. 8 and mainly focused on addressing human trafficking and disrupting distribution networks. Deputies offered resources and assistance to those struggling with mental health and addiction issues.
Throughout the night, 64 people were provided with treatment options, 13 set up appointments with treatment providers, five were immediately connected with treatment providers and 20 were connected with a foodbank, community housing, etc.
"Operation BRIDGE reflects our commitment to both law enforcement and community support. While we hold individuals accountable, we also want to provide the help needed to break cycles of addiction and mental health struggles," said Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin.
The sheriff’s office says deputies were able to help two women who were actively using drugs while pregnant and one person who was a prior U.S. service member.
The following day, on Oct. 9, Operation Unity took place in the southwest corner of the county as a response to community concerns. Authorities focused on drug crimes, robberies, traffic violations, apprehending criminals and recovering illegal drugs.
Seven felony arrests were made, 25 misdemeanor drug-related citations were given out and four firearms were seized.
According to the sheriff’s office, one of the arrests made was for a suspect accused of involuntary manslaughter stemming from an overdose death.
