By Tim Arnett
WABASH,Indiana – The drug problem in Wabash is apparently so bad a feature-length documentary is being made on the subject. The documentary “Wabash City On High” will focus on the worsening drug problem the city has seen over the years. Wabash-natives Doug Bolton and Jeremiah Garrett will talk to current and former addicts and get their personal stories on how drugs have hurt them and their loved ones.
Garrett originally thought of the idea of exposing the town’s drug problem through a documentary around 10 years ago after his brother died of an overdose. While neither have had much experience making a film, both say they are committed to this project. And that is, Garrett says, because 90% of the residents of Wabash have been affected in some way by drug addiction. Both men say that in their opinion people in the city have tried to cover up the issue thinking it will just go away. But Bolton says that just makes the problem worse. Bolton on the purpose of the upcoming documentary “Wabash City On High.”
Garrett said that the drug problem is getting worse in town. Based on how many people have died already of overdoses in 2016, he said he fears what the total number will be at year’s end. He expressed his disappointment that the half-way house project at the old Wabash County Jail seemingly has fallen through, saying that Monday’s development is a “major problem.” Garrett added that it’s sad to see his hometown get worse every year when it comes to drug addiction.
Several people at Saturday’s anti-drug rally on Cass Street mentioned that they have found needles all over town, including at Charley Creek Park where children sometimes play. The documentary film is planning on going to local parks known for drug use and shoot video evidence in the form of syringes that hide in plain view. While that will make good footage, Bolton said, the real purpose is to get the syringes away from the children that play in the area.
The entire project is expected to be completed in six months.
In a bit of good news,Utopian Oasis Founder Kitt Bettencourt told MiBash News Monday afternoon that 16 people have contacted her looking for help since the rally on Saturday.
This is a problem that has affected many people in our country. I lost my nephew to a heroin overdose. It broke our hearts. I wish there was some way to get to these people to convince them that it could be them the next time they use it. I just don’t understand why they feel the need. And I hope I never do. I will be praying for this program to touch someone and make a difference in their lives.