Santa Rosa Police Department launches series of community education efforts on fentanyl abuse and youth gang violence

In response to recent tragic incidents involving teen overdose deaths, a stabbing, and the discovery of weapons on local high school campuses, the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) is launching a series of educational presentations aimed at raising awareness and providing prevention strategies related to fentanyl abuse and youth gang violence. 

These presentations are a collaborative effort between SRPD, Santa Rosa City Schools (SRCS), The Violence Prevention Partnership (VPP), and is being funded in part by the California AB114 grant, which supports community outreach designed to combat drug abuse, divert gang activity, and provide positive intervention programs for high-risk students. 

Starting next week, members of SRPD will be visiting local high schools to engage with students, parents, and staff in a proactive effort to address these critical issues. The presentations will cover the dangers of fentanyl, the rising trend of opioid abuse, and youth gang involvement within the community.  

Additionally, SRPD will be presenting at community meetings hosted by Chop’s Teen Club and Santa Rosa City Councilwoman Natalie Rogers. Subject matter experts from SRPD will be providing potentially life-saving information for students, parents, school employees, and all community members. 

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of young lives and the ongoing threat posed by gangs and drugs in our schools,” said Santa Rosa Police Chief John Cregan. “Our priority is to ensure that students, parents, and educators have the tools, knowledge, and support they need to prevent these devastating issues from claiming more lives. These educational sessions will foster a much-needed dialogue and help students make informed decisions about their safety and well-being.” 

The presentations will include: 

• Information on the Dangers of Fentanyl: How it is affecting local youth, how to spot the signs of abuse, and steps to take in case of exposure. 

• Understanding Youth Gang Violence: The role gangs play in influencing teens and how to identify warning signs of gang involvement. 

• Prevention and Support Resources: Providing families with information on local support services, hotlines, and youth programs dedicated to providing help and alternatives. 

“We must work together—police, schools, parents, and students—to create a safer community for everyone,” Chief Cregan added. “These presentations are just the beginning. We are committed to ongoing outreach and education to equip our community with the resources they need to combat fentanyl abuse and youth violence.” 

The presentation schedule is as follows: 

• 3/11 at 5:30 pm – Piner High School, 1700 Fulton Road 

• 3/13 at 5:30 pm – Montgomery High School, 1250 Hahman Drive 

• 3/15 at 1:00 pm – Townhall Meeting for Safer Communities hosted by Councilwoman Natalie Rogers and Church Unstoppable at Church Unstoppable, 791 Lombardi Court.  

• 3/25 at 5:30 pm – Elsie Allen High School, 599 Bellevue Avenue 

• 3/26 at 5:30 pm – Santa Rosa High School, 1235 Mendocino Avenue 

• 3/27 at 5:30 pm – Maria Carrillo High School, 6975 Montecito Boulevard  

• 4/2 at 5:30 pm – Chop's Teen Club, 509 Adams Street 

Students, parents, and school staff are highly encouraged to attend these presentations, and all community members are also welcome. It takes the collaboration of everyone in the community to address the root causes of drug abuse and gang violence and provide support for lasting change. 

Learn more about the upcoming presentations and view educational material here. 

The Santa Rosa Police Department is committed to protecting and serving our community through proactive policing, education, and outreach. We work in partnership with local schools, organizations, and residents to make Santa Rosa a safe place to live, work, and play. 

Media inquiries can be made to Sgt. Patricia Seffens, Public Information Officer, at 707-543-3634 or pseffens@srcity.org.