Rep. Gillen Hosts Nassau County School Superintendents and DEA Northeast Associate Chief of Operations Tarentino to Address Rising Threat of Synthetic Drugs

HEMPSTEAD, NY - Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) hosted an information session with Nassau County school superintendents and Associate Chief of Operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Northeast Region, Frank Tarentino. The discussion focused on combating the growing threat of fentanyl and synthetic drugs in Nassau County schools and communities, while also highlighting resources and opportunities available through Gillen's office for students and schools.

The meeting featured presentations from DEA Northeast Associate Chief of Operations Tarentino and co-chair of the Levittown Community Action Coalition, Larry Lamendola, an addiction treatment advocate who has worked to raise awareness about fentanyl poisoning following the loss of his daughter in 2019.

"The danger we face from the fentanyl, carfentanyl, xylazine and other illicit drugs trafficked into our communities cannot be overstated. Their capacity to kill is terrifying," said Rep. Gillen. "After meeting with the frontline warriors at the DEA who are combating this scourge, I saw the critical need to make sure our neighbors, schools and students are informed about this threat. I'm grateful to DEA Associate Chief of Operations Tarentino, activist Larry Lamendola and our school superintendents for their partnership in fighting to protect our youth and neighbors."

In addition to discussing public safety and student wellness, Rep. Gillen encouraged school leaders to connect students with opportunities available through her office, including the Congressional Art Competition, Congressional App Challenge and this week's Military Service Academy Information Session.

Rep. Gillen also highlighted her work in Congress to support law enforcement and combat drug trafficking, including helping pass the HALT Fentanyl Act and supporting increased funding for the DEA through the FY26 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Act. Rep. Gillen recently visited New York's divisional DEA lab to hear directly about the vital work they are doing supporting law enforcement and keeping illegal drugs off the street.

Participating school leaders included representatives from Hempstead, Rockville Centre, Lynbrook, East Meadow, Baldwin, Valley Stream, Uniondale, Roosevelt, Oceanside, Malverne, Lawrence, Island Park, East Rockaway, Chaminade High School and Evergreen Charter School.

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