Drug Test - Mobile, AL

Notable Events Relating to Substance Abuse in Mobile, AL

In July 2022, a Mobile man was sentenced to life in prison for his role in a major drug conspiracy and distribution ring located in the area. William Grant Owens was sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of distributing and possessing fentanyl, which resulted in the overdose death of local resident, Kelsey Johnston. Owens was a member of the local Crossley Hills drug trafficking ring and was responsible for distributing various controlled substances across the county area.

Owens had requested one of his accomplices inject Johnston with fentanyl in an effort to have sexual relations with her, but this sadly resulted in her death. Alongside numerous drug charges and additional claims of forced drug use and sexual abuse, Owens now remains in prison on a life term and faces no opportunity for parole. This notable local arrest comes in part of the investigation and prosecution efforts of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF.)

Local Initiatives to Help Curb Substance Abuse in Mobile, AL

The Mobile Police Department in partnership with the U.S. Attorney's Office and the Mobile County Health Department developed the Second Chance or Else Program (S.C.O.R.E.) in an effort to reduce recurring drug crime and substance abuse in the area. Under this program, select non-violent drug dealers are provided the opportunity to engage in an intensive community mentorship program.

Program components supported by social program providers, community leaders, and area clergy work to decrease the chances of previous drug behavior and criminal activity reoccurring later on down the line. This one-year program also addresses related concerns including fatherhood, education completion, and employment assistance.

Last updated 8/30/2022