Emergency Services

In recent months law enforcement has noticed a significant increase in the number of drug overdose cases and deaths.  The Outagamie County Sheriff’s Department would like to take a moment to share with you some signs of drug activity in your neighborhood.  If you notice things which you find concerning please contact the Sheriff’s Department at (920) 832 5000.  

One very concerning behavior is the production of methamphetamines and the danger posed by this.  Some potential signs this is occurring near you can include:

Unusual odors (strong chemical smells) coming from the house or outbuildings, strange ventilation from the structures, covered windows, security cameras, unusual trash including excessive cold medication packets, lithium batteries, coffee filters with unusual staining and chemicals such as paint thinner.

Some behaviors often exhibited by those using or manufacturing meth include paranoia, frequent activity at the house including odd hours, frequent visitors, paying excessive attention to traffic passing by, placing their garbage in front of neighboring houses, burning garbage and staying in their home for extended periods of time.

Once addicted to methamphetamines or heroin, users become dependent on it and will do anything to obtain it.  As drug overdoses and deaths increase so do property crimes such as thefts and burglaries.  The Sheriff’s Department, along with the Lake Winnebago MEG Unit and the joint Outagamie County Sheriff’s Department / Appleton Police Department’s Community Resource Unit, are all working diligently to combat this rise in drug use.  Any questions regarding this can be directed to Sgt. Nathan Borman at 920 832 5499.