In a recent special meeting held on April 18, 2025, Spokane County and City officials discussed the launch of a new initiative aimed at addressing the growing concerns surrounding narcotics trafficking and opioid use in the downtown area. The initiative, known as the Leave Behind program, is part of a broader strategy to combat drug-related issues and enhance community safety.

The Leave Behind program, sponsored by the state, equips first responders with naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, a life-saving nasal spray used to reverse opioid overdoses. Officers will now be able to leave Narcan with individuals at high risk of overdose, along with brief instructions on its use. This proactive approach aims to provide immediate assistance to those in need, regardless of whether they are arrested.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that the majority of narcotics-related calls for service occur in the downtown district, emphasizing the need for targeted enforcement. The Spokane Police Department's Tactical Operations Unit (TACOPS) will focus on identifying and disrupting mid-level narcotics traffickers who supply drugs to the area. This effort is part of a comprehensive downtown crime control plan that seeks to enhance visibility and engagement with the community.

The plan also involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including community courts, local organizations, and service providers. By fostering these relationships, officials aim to create pathways for individuals seeking treatment and support, ultimately reducing the cycle of drug use and crime.

The meeting underscored the importance of addressing the drug market ecosystem in downtown Spokane, which officials described as a living, breathing social system. By targeting both the supply and demand sides of the narcotics issue, the initiative aims to disrupt open-air drug markets and provide necessary services to those most in need.

As Spokane County and City officials move forward with this initiative, they remain committed to improving community safety and supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders. The first shipment of Narcan is expected to arrive soon, marking a significant step in the city's efforts to combat the opioid crisis.