MENASHA, WI (WTAQ) – People are being warned to watch out for discarded needles in public places.
That’s after Menasha Police say they were alerted to a needle found at Jefferson Park.
Thomas Allen walked with his nephew and two dogs on Friday, looking out for discarded needles.
“It’s kinda scary, to be honest, with people walking their dogs and kids playing in the park. It’s pretty, it’s pretty dangerous,” Allen told FOX 11.
Menasha police say they gotten about 10 calls from people finding needles across the city in the past several months.
“With the significant rise in the heroin use we believe it’s strongly tied to that,” explained Officer Aaron Zemlock, adding that if you do find a needle don’t pick it up yourself. He advises just calling police.
The needles aren’t just an issue in Menasha. Zemlock said they’re being found across the Fox Valley. Another bunch of needles were found in the Town of Menasha several months ago.
“It comes down to lessening the heroin use, supporting those who need the support. Then you should see a reduction in these needles being discarded,” said Zemlock.
Authorities also believe that more needles are being found due to the snow melt. They believe some of those needles could’ve been there for weeks, if not months.
