Andover Police Make Record Number of Heroin Arrests

Andover police said they have made a record number of heroin arrests so far this year.

As of May 15, police made 35 arrests for possession or intent to distribute heroin. That's compared to 26 all of last year.

Police Chief Patrick Keefe said the situation is dire.

"We will remain vigilant, seeking out the drug trade wherever it presents itself, but a community cannot simply arrest its way out of a crisis like this," he said in a statement. "Drugs affect families, workplaces, and neighborhoods ... we will continue to take a multifaceted approach, using a variety of tools and programs to combat drugs and their effects on society."

Andover is not alone. Earlier this year, Gov. Deval Patrick declared heroin abuse to be a public health crisis in communities across the state.

Andover police said they now have a collection unit at the public safety building for people to drop off drugs—no questions asked.

Police are also hosting a free training session on overdose protection May 20 at 6 p.m. at the police department. The public is welcome.