Federal law enforcement officials are citing a rise in drug overdose deaths in New Mexico as the FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration release a documentary aimed at educating high schoolers on the dangers of opioids.
Special agents in charge for the FBI and DEA in New Mexico say the agencies will distribute free DVDs of the documentary "Chasing the Dragon" to high schools in the state.
The film centers on the stories of several people who have struggled with prescription opioid and heroin addiction.
Federal statistics show the number of drug overdose fatalities in New Mexico increased from fewer than 10 deaths per 100,000 people in 1999 to more than 25 in 2014.
U.S. Attorney Damon Martinez says drug abuse prevention and education measures have been added to his office's approach to addressing an opioid epidemic in the state.
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