United States Drug Enforcement Administration

OMAHA, Neb.– Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division Special Agent in Charge Justin C. King stressed the importance of drug education and prevention at a Red Ribbon Week proclamation signing ceremony attended by Nebraska Lt. Governor Mike Foley at the Capitol in Lincoln.

Red Ribbon Week is the nation’s oldest and largest drug misuse prevention awareness program, occurring annually in October. Red Ribbon Week began following the death of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, who was tortured and murdered in 1985 by drug traffickers he was investigating in Mexico. After Camarena’s death, people began wearing red ribbons to honor his sacrifice. Today, millions of people celebrate Red Ribbon Week by wearing red ribbons, participating in community anti-drug events and pledging to live drug-free lives.

To promote Red Ribbon Week, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts signed a proclamation declaring October 23-31 as Red Ribbon Week in the state of Nebraska, urging all citizens to take note of the observance.

“Today we not only recognize fallen DEA agent Kiki Camarena, but we take this opportunity to join with fellow Nebraskans in promoting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle,” King said. “Experimenting with drugs can lead to life altering and sometimes deadly consequences. I firmly believe, that the most valuable resource we have are the people around us. We must protect these resources and give them their opportunity to thrive and not be weighed down by addiction.”

Throughout October, DEA investigators and fellow law enforcement partners will visit schools across the state educating students on the dangers of drugs and reminding them of the importance of avoiding experimentation.

For those interested in learning more about how to start a conversation with a family member or friend on the dangers of drugs, the DEA has resources available on the www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.gov and www.JustThinkTwice.gov websites.