6-28-2018
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Whatcom County is joining other cities and states suing opioid manufacturers and distributors demanding they pay damages for their role in the opioid crisis.
The Whatcom County Prosecutor’s Office filed the federal lawsuit Wednesday against eight of the largest opioid manufacturers and distributors in the country.
It claims they violated a number of federal regulations including the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations) Act, passed by Richard Nixon in 1970.
The Health Department says Whatcom County ranks second in the state for opioid-related treatment admissions.