i_opioidsubstance_2017a_2017-09-12t09:06:11z8 Hearing Summary

Date: 09/12/2017

Location: RM 271

03:21 PM -- Law Enforcement and Drug Interdiction



Detective Ray Padilla, Colorado Drug Investigators Association, presented to the committee. He explained different reasons for the increase in overdose deaths in Colorado, including over prescribing of opioid medication and public demand for stronger, more powerful drugs. Detective Padilla explained that domestic marijuana production has resulted in increased poppy/heroin production and methamphetamine production by drug cartels in Mexico. He noted that heroin is relatively cheap to obtain in Colorado compared to prescription opioids. Detective Padilla explained that heroin is sometime mixed with potent drugs, making it more lethal, and that smuggling activities from Mexico have increased. He noted that there has been an increase in drugs purchased over the dark web.





03:32 PM



Detective Padilla explained that Colorado is both a source state and pass-through state for many narcotics in the country. He suggested creating public policy that provides higher penalties for distributors of fentanyl and carfentayl. Detective Padilla added that there are two primary routes for heroin trafficking through Colorado.





03:37 PM



Detective Padilla responded to questions regarding payment for drug transaction over the internet, specific recommendations for increased funding or legislation, and screening drug packages coming into the U.S.