Multiple overnight overdoes, death related to cocaine purchases in Menominee and Marinette counties

MENOMINEE -- The Menominee County Sheriff's Office released a statement on Tuesday relating to recent cocaine-related overdoses and deaths in Marinette and Menominee counties.

"Sheriff Darrin Kudwa reports that cocaine use has resulted in at least four overdoses and one death in Marinette and Menominee counties since (Monday) night," read the statement.

"While individuals have been detained in reference to this investigation, Sheriff Kudwa cautions that more of the tainted drug may have been distributed locally."

An additional statement was released by the Menominee City Police Department on Tuesday.

"The Menominee Police Department is deeply concerned by a recent string of cocaine related overdoses in our community, including one tragic fatality," read the statement. "These incidents have had a profound impact on the families, friends and others involved. Throughout the last 24 hours our community has experienced 4 known overdoses, and all are believed to be related.

"The Menominee Police Department is part of the multi-agency team that is actively investigating these incidents. Officers and detectives are pursuing every available lead to ensure those responsible for distributing these dangerous drugs are held accountable.

"This investigation is ongoing, which means what we can disclose is limited at this time. However, we hope this press release can help drive awareness about this immediate and ongoing threat, and prevent further harm to our community. Anyone who may have information about illegal drug activity, especially our recent overdoses, is urged to report it to law enforcement.

"We encourage anyone struggling with substance use or anyone who knows someone at risk to seek help immediately. By working together through prevention, treatment, education, and enforcement, we can help protect our community and prevent future tragedies."

A joint investigation comprised of multiple Michigan and Wisconsin-based agencies is ongoing.

The Menominee County Sheriff's Office encourages anyone with information related to these incidents to call them at 906-863-4441. Tips can also be submitted anonymously via the Crime Stoppers of Marinette and Menominee county websites or the P3 Tips app.

Annie Lippert can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. Her email address is alippert@miningjournal.net.