As a year-end report to our readers and followers; it’s been one busy period of time, with education and awareness efforts having a positive effect.
VOID’s impact has been felt nationwide, with presentations made throughout the country, as well as here in California.
In addition to the many local audiences, presentations were made to the 3rd MAW, Miramar Air Station in San Diego, and Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California. Over 15,000 Marine Corps warriors were educated about illicit fentanyl and the impact that’s being felt in our armed forces. It was humbling to speak to this audience, and be welcomed by their Commanding General,
Major General Michael Borgshulte.
Georgetown Unified School District in Georgetown, Texas was visited, and over a two-day period, nine presentations were provided to over six thousand High School students. Sadly, illicit fentanyl, as in many other areas throughout the country, has had its impact in this beautiful part of our country, and the message emphasizing its danger was well
received.
In November, Jaime was privileged to have been invited, along with Voices of Awareness founder, Andrea Thomas, to the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. Here they presented to Police
Executives, both from the United States, and Internationally attending the FBI National Academy, the experience of their family’s and of local communities confronting the scourge of illicit fentanyl.
What better audience than those responsible and in command of law enforcement agencies to enhance their enforcement efforts surrounding illicit fentanyl.
National Issues
The “Fend Off Fentanyl Act”, S. 1271, would provide for sanctions to be imposed against those involved in the trafficking of illicit fentanyl. Unfortunately, as of the publishing of this newsletter, the bill has yet to move forward, due to any action surrounding the
National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), of which S.1271 is included, has yet to be acted upon. Attached is a letter of support provided by
VOID. If not dealt with now, it will be reintroduced in the upcoming legislative session.
Worthy Recognition
We were all cast into this education and advocacy effort due to the death of a child. We have run the gamut of emotions, and strive to maintain a targeted set of goals.
VOID has focused on Education and Awareness. We remain of the belief that knowledge of Illicit fentanyl’s fatal potential is the most effective and first line method of harm reduction. In doing so, we have been privileged to partner with and be introduced to a variety of remarkable and supportive people.
One such person is William “Bill” Bodner. Special Agent Bodner, has concluded his 28-year career with the DEA, with a well-deserved retirement that recently took effect.
SA Bodner ends on an extremely high note, having been the Special Agent in Charge of the Los Angeles Field Division.
In that capacity, he was responsible for the management of agents and overseeing the daily operations of 14 offices located in Nevada, Hawaii, Guam, Saipan,
and the seven Southern California counties which make up the greater Los Angeles area.
His undaunting support of families impacted by illicit fentanyl is truly appreciated. The aggressive investigative posture undertaken by agents under his command is noteworthy. He
continues into the private sector, and will be operating an investigative and consulting service.
Bill, we wish nothing but continued success and the best for you in the future. Stay in touch!!
In closing we look forward to a successful continuation of VOID’s efforts as we enter 2024.
If we can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to get a hold of us.
