Overdose Leads to Dealer's Arrest

Medford Police

On January 21st, 2022, the Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement team (MADGE) became aware of a near fatal overdose of a local woman, who was hospitalized for several days. The suspected drug involved was fentanyl.

The investigation led MADGE to Brian Dee Forbes, 52 years old, who resides in the 1900 block of Homeview Drive, Medford. On January 28th, 2022, MADGE executed a search warrant on the residence and arrested Forbes, who was found in possession of just under 70 grams of fentanyl, a small amount of heroin, 30 pounds of marijuana, and a firearm. Forbes is facing numerous charges, included Felon in Possession of a Firearm, as he is a convicted felon. 

Fentanyl is now the illicit drug of choice in the Rogue Valley, essentially replacing heroin. Fentanyl has typically been seen in the pill form, but is now predominately in powder form, such as this case (see photo). 

Fentanyl has been responsible for a significant increase in overdoses, many of which have been fatal. In 2020, MPD deployed Naloxone (Narcan) a total of 30 times, which increased to 76 times in 2021, and we already have 8 doses deployed this year.

MPD and MADGE will continue to aggressively investigate suspected fentanyl possession and dealing.