Operation UNITE was launched in 2003 by U.S. Congressman Hal Rogers to fight the drug epidemic in Southern and Eastern Kentucky, an area dubbed as a national epicenter for prescription drug abuse by media outlets. The name UNITE is an acronym, meaning Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education. It reflects the three-pronged, comprehensive approach deemed necessary to combating substance abuse in Kentucky.
To date, UNITE detectives have removed over $9 million worth of drugs off the street, including more than 92,900 prescription pills, more than 23 pounds of cocaine, over 460 pounds of processed marijuana and over 11.75 pounds of methamphetamine. Their efforts have led to the arrests of more than 3,300 drug dealers and a 97.0% conviction rate. Operation UNITE has provided vouchers to more than 1,500 people to help pay for short-term or long-term treatment of substance abuse issues. In addition, UNITE's youth initiatives have reached more than 50,000 children.
To learn more about UNITE and how you can make a difference in your community, click on the logo.
