Robert Schenck Hails Work of Drug Enforcement Strike Team

State Rep. Robert Schenck, R-Spring Hill, chairman of the House Health and Human Services Committee, praised the efforts of the states year-old Florida Drug Enforcement strike teams in reducing the spread and illegal sale of prescription drugs across Florida.

Gov. Rick Scott, Attorney General Pam Bondi and Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Gerald Bailey announced Wednesday that the task force has made 2,150 arrests -- including 34 doctors -- and seized 59 vehicles, 391 weapons and $4.7 million. The number of pain clinics has been reduced from 800 to 508.

I am proud of Floridas Drug Enforcement strike teams for their tireless commitment to stopping the spread of prescription drugs in our communities. Their efforts, made possible by recent changes to Floridas prescription drug laws, prove that Florida means business when it comes to stopping prescription drug abuse.

"Thanks to the Legislatures action on strengthening Floridas prescription drug laws last year, we are already seeing tremendous progress in fighting the spread of illegal prescription drugs. As reported earlier this year, the number of oxycodone pills purchased by Florida doctors declined by 97 percent from 2010 to 2011. Law enforcement actions bolster our fight against the sale and exchange of illegal prescription drugs and ensure Florida is no longer a safe haven for criminals contributing to prescription drug abuse.

I appreciate the teamwork of Floridas law enforcement officers in stopping prescription drug abuse around the state and the continued leadership of Governor Scott and Attorney General Bondi. Their devotion to stopping the spread of illegal prescription drugs is making Florida a better place.