Knowledge Is Power: Approaching Efficient, Cross-Discipline Intelligence-Sharing as a Public Safety Priority

The Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center (ONIC) enhances public safety through intelligence-sharing among diverse partners, to mitigate the effects of illicit drugs. Established by Governor DeWine in 2019, this specialized intelligence unit assists local law enforcement in intelligence-driven drug trafficking investigations. ONIC quickly developed a unique capacity to collaborate and share data across all levels of government and disciplines. Facilitating communications that were absent before ONIC and building strong alliances with diverse partners allows for the production of comprehensive analytical products, support of criminal investigations, connection of at-risk individuals to treatment, early identification of drug trends, and rapid implementation of chemical control measures. This holistic approach is accomplished through proactive engagement with personnel from varied sectors like public health, including the Ohio Department of Health; law enforcement; Ohio’s forensic chemistry and toxicology labs; and regulatory agencies, including Ohio’s Board of Pharmacy and Mental Health and Addiction Services. Information gathered is disseminated rapidly to law enforcement, prosecutors, quick response teams, harm reduction and treatment providers, community coalitions, and primary prevention organizations, as appropriate. The swift collection, integration, and dissemination of comprehensive data drives evidence-based approaches to interrupt drug supplies, mitigating the risks of substance-use initiation and accidental overdose deaths. In its first two years, ONIC responded to more than 1,000 requests for assistance, produced more than 1,200 analytical products, and conducted more than 4,400 digital forensic examinations. ONIC involvement directly contributes to increased treatment referrals and convictions of drug traffickers.

This session will describe how to engage diverse stakeholders that have traditionally been siloed in order to gather and disseminate broader, more holistic data more efficiently. Attendees will learn what data can be leveraged to identify and triage communication of emerging drug threats through an evolving landscape and to improve outcomes for law enforcement, public health, and the public at large.