VIDEO – WHAT PRICE A LIFE –
Feb. 12, 2026 – The initiative follows significant drug enforcement actions. Late last year, Police recovered an estimated 330,000 suspected fentanyl pills as law enforcement continues to address the source of opioid distribution in the state. Advocates for the machine said the high volume of drugs in the area necessitates more accessible harm-reduction tools. Cary Nelson, the pastor at First Christian Church, has lived in Southern Colorado for 25 years and has witnessed the impact of substance abuse firsthand. “It’s always been really bad here in Trinidad,” Nelson said. He recalled a tragedy involving a young woman who died on her birthday after taking ecstasy that was unknowingly laced with opioids. Nelson noted that because naloxone was not available, “she didn’t get a second chance.”
Marsy Key, Executive Director of Keep Trinidad Safe, said the vending machine fills a critical gap in service hours. While the local health department provides the drug for free, it is only open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Retail options such as Walmart can charge approximately $40 for the treatment. “What if someone’s not available at that time?” Key said regarding the health department’s limited hours.
