Drug Test - Tulsa, OK

Tulsa, Oklahoma - Drug Testing

Notable Events Related to Drug Use in Tulsa

In February of 2022, Tulsa police arrested three individuals who were distributing and selling drugs including methamphetamine and marijuana. The three adults were living in an extended-stay hotel with two elderly individuals and three dogs. Police found drugs, firearms, and other evidence that made it clear that they were selling the drugs to the homeless population nearby. Demarco Cox, William Sapp, and Sharlie Anderson were charged with possession of controlled drugs with intent to distribute, possession of stolen property, and possession of firearms after a felony conviction.

In the same month, the Federal Grand Jury in Tulsa named over 20 people in drug-related indictments for crimes including possession with intent to distribute, drug conspiracy, and drug trafficking. The bulk of the charges were related to the distribution of fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

Local Police Efforts to Address Drug Problems in Tulsa

It's estimated that Tulsa County's drug overdose rate is twice the average for the state of Oklahoma. In an effort to address this, the county has enacted a new program, known as the Tulsa Anti-Recidivism Misdemeanor Diversion (TURN). The purpose of this program is to provide an alternative to incarceration for individuals with substance abuse disorders.

TURN is far different from most drug courts. This free six-month program isn't focused on maintaining sobriety and does not involve drug testing. Instead, it focuses on relationship building and stabilization, requiring participants to engage with service and treatment providers who can assist them with counseling, food, housing, and employment opportunities. Some of the benefits of completing the program include the opportunity for dismissed charges, elimination of court fines or fees, and fewer court dates.

Substance Abuse Trends and Statistics for the City of Tulsa

Drug overdoses in the state of Oklahoma are on the rise. According to data from the CDC, overdose deaths in Oklahoma increased by 23% from March 2020 to March 2021. However, unlike much of the rest of the country, the Oklahoma State Department of Health says the majority of deaths are related to overdoses of methamphetamine, rather than opioids.

This trend has extended to Tulsa as well. According to Amy Cox, clinical director for the Tulsa Women and Children's Center drug and alcohol treatment facility, 99% of the patients they treat are meth addicts. However, opioid deaths are also an issue. The state health department says fentanyl-related deaths increased 170 percent from 2019 through 2020. Matthew Condley, a prevention specialist with the Tulsa Health Department, says that he is also seeing more incidences of fentanyl being added to other drugs including cocaine, meth, and marijuana.

Last updated 7/27/2022