Columbus, Ohio -- Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced on May 2nd, that nearly three dozen local drug task forces in Ohio are receiving state support to aid in their work to disrupt the drug trade and promote substance use awareness, prevention, and recovery.

More than $2.2 million in grants from Governor DeWine’s RecoveryOhio Law Enforcement Fund will be awarded to 34 existing drug task forces to help officers identify high-level drug traffickers, dismantle large drug trafficking organizations, interrupt the flow of money and drugs from international cartels, and prevent the sale of illegal narcotics.

“This grant program helps local law enforcement stop drug traffickers and prevent drug dependence using a two-pronged approach," said Governor DeWine. "Not only do they work to stem the flow of drugs, but they're also helping citizens with prevention and recovery support."

DETAILS: List of RecoveryOhio Law Enforcement Fund Grants

Grant funding will be used to support the mission of Governor DeWine's RecoveryOhio initiative, which aims to increase substance use and mental health awareness, implement age-appropriate prevention education in schools, connect those who need help with treatment, and promote recovery.

Governor DeWine worked in partnership with the Ohio General Assembly to secure funding for these grants in the operating budget. The program is administered by the Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services.