Jefferson County, Indiana – In a significant step towards enhancing public safety, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) has recognized a vital partnership aimed at combating the opioid crisis in the community. Working alongside Exodus Life, a faith-based nonprofit, and Andre Braswell of Heat Magazine, JCSO has bolstered its emergency response capabilities to address opioid overdoses. This collaboration recently culminated in a generous donation that will better equip the department and protect the community.
The highlight of this partnership was the donation of four cases of Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, a medication used to reverse the effects of opioid overdoses in emergency situations. This lifesaving drug has become increasingly critical as the opioid epidemic continues to affect communities across the nation. The donation, delivered by Andre Braswell, was received by JCSO officers, including Captain Zekeyia Jackson and Lieutenant Keaira Hawkins, who have firsthand experience of Narcan’s importance in the field.
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The officers’ experiences underscore the real impact that access to Naloxone can have. On January 31, 2025, and again on December 20, 2023, Lieutenant Hawkins was exposed to opioids during incidents, and the quick application of Narcan helped save her life both times. These incidents demonstrated the urgent need for continued access to this lifesaving medication, not just for officers but also for the general public who may be at risk of opioid overdose.
The JCSO expressed deep gratitude for the ongoing partnership with Exodus Life, which has been integral to efforts to address substance use and mental health challenges in the community. Exodus Life operates through the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-Based Program, providing support to individuals and families impacted by these issues. This program is particularly active at the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center and the Jack Jones Juvenile Center, helping to provide resources and support to those in need.
Alongside Exodus Life, the contribution of Heat Magazine and Andre Braswell has also been instrumental. Braswell’s donation of Naloxone directly contributes to the safety of officers, who often face the dangers associated with opioid exposure. This partnership strengthens not only the operational capabilities of the sheriff’s office but also the resilience of the community as a whole, empowering it to better fight the opioid epidemic.
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JCSO remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Jefferson County residents by equipping its officers with the necessary tools to handle a range of emergency situations. Through partnerships like these, the department is not only improving its response to opioid overdoses but also promoting a broader approach to public safety that includes community support, education, and prevention.
The sheriff’s office has expressed its sincere thanks to both Exodus Life and Andre Braswell for their ongoing commitment to public safety and community wellness. Their contributions serve as a reminder of the power of collaboration in addressing complex social issues like substance abuse. The partnership also highlights the crucial role that local organizations, faith-based groups, and individual advocates play in creating safer, healthier communities.
As the opioid crisis continues to evolve, the JCSO, with the help of organizations like Exodus Life and Heat Magazine, is dedicated to staying ahead of the curve and ensuring that officers have the resources and support they need to protect themselves and the community.
