Officials say heroin remains popular and available in Ohio

HAMILTON, Ohio (AP) — Ohio health officials say heroin remains popular and widely available across most of the state.

The Hamilton-Middletown Journal-News reports a survey of drug abuse trends by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services says heroin availability increased in six of eight Ohio regions between January and June of 2014.

While heroin availability increased, officials say the availability of powdered cocaine and synthetic marijuana is falling in some regions.

A spokesman with the state agency says the report reaffirms national and state trends indicating heroin and other opiates remain popular.

The report used data collected in a survey of active and recovering drug users and treatment professionals, as well as information from coroner’s offices, courts, the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and county crime labs.