Ep 9. Motor City Rush
- TV-14
- December 30, 2012
- 44 min
In season 3 episode 9 of Drugs, Inc. titled "Motor City Rush", the focus is on the city of Detroit and its rampant drug problem. The episode explores the city's history of corruption and organized crime which has contributed to the drug trade flourishing.
The episode begins with an exploration of Detroit's history as a hub for automotive manufacturing and the subsequent decline of the industry. The unemployment and poverty resulting from this decline have made the city fertile ground for drug dealers and users alike.
The show then delves into the specific drugs that are prevalent in the region, including crack cocaine and prescription opioids. The episode features interviews with former addicts, drug dealers, and law enforcement officials, who shed light on the brutal and dangerous nature of the drug trade in the city.
One harrowing segment of the episode focuses on the use of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is many times more potent than heroin. The drug has become increasingly popular with traffickers, who are able to smuggle it into the country from China and Mexico. The consequences of its use can be fatal, as even a small amount can lead to an overdose. The show follows a Detroit-based DEA team as they attempt to track down and intercept a shipment of the drug.
Another segment of the episode focuses on the efforts of law enforcement to clamp down on drug trafficking in the city, often with mixed results. The show features interviews with police officers who speak to the challenges they face in tackling the problem, including low staffing levels and a lack of resources. Despite this, the show also highlights some small successes, such as a recent bust of a local gang that had been responsible for numerous drug-related crimes in the area.
Overall, "Motor City Rush" is a sobering look at the impact that drugs have had on Detroit and its residents. The episode provides a stark reminder that drug addiction is not just a personal tragedy, but also a societal problem that requires a multifaceted approach to address.