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BERWICK — The Berwick Anti-Drug Alliance (BADA) will conduct a presentation on March 16 aimed at equipping members of the community to understand and address the ongoing problem of drug addiction and related crime.
The unique presentation entitled “Law and Order: Berwick True Crime,” held at McBride Memorial Library, will include a panel of victims, law enforcement and the sentencing judge, all affected by a crime spree which occurred in Berwick in October 2013.
“This true story unfolded after a desperate heroin addict terrorized the community and placed the lives of numerous residents in jeopardy,” said Maxim Furek, BADA spokesman, “Our program will follow the sequence of events in a real and dramatic manner as we witness how criminality impacts the lives of everyday citizens.”
During the two-day spree, heroin addict Noah Bomboy, in the throes of withdrawal and in need of money, held two women at knifepoint, directing them to withdraw money from the bank. When one of the victims ran from the car, Bomboy fled.
He then approached a third victim who refused to allow him inside his car. The two got into a scuffle and the victim’s arm was cut.
His fourth victim did, at knifepoint, give Bombay money and drove him to his dealers house.
He was later apprehended by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Department.
Furek said more that just a story about an addict’s willingness to go to any length to fund his habit, the incident reflects the serious negative impact addiction, especially to heroin, has on the entire community.
“The trend I see with heroin is increased potency, decreased price and a sophisticated network of distribution,” he said. “You can see just how dangerous this drug is with all the overdose deaths in places like Pittsburgh and New York.”
The Alliance, established in 2011, hopes to raise awareness of mental health, substance abuse and addiction to identify available resources and provide hope through the use of education, media strategies and special events.
“Berwick like every small town and big city in Pennsylvania has problems with drug dealers, drug addicts and related crime,” said Furek. “Berwick, however, is standing up to the problem and trying to take back the streets.”
Furek stresses the importance of those with long term, sustained recovery “stepping up” and making themselves available to those still struggling.
He said the alliance makes use of every available tool useful in conquering addiction, including the spiritual, with several members of clergy active in the organization.
“Addicts need to know there is a way back to productive meaningful lives,” he said. “We need to provide models within the community to assist those still in their addiction.”
“And for that, we are responsible.”
For more information on this event contact Maxim Furek at 570-542-7946 or the McBride Memorial Library at 570-752-2241.