October 16, 2017
Carson City, NV – Today, Nevada Attorney General Adam Paul Laxalt announced the appointment of Terry Kerns as Nevada’s first ever statewide opioid coordinator in the Office of the Nevada Attorney General. In this role, Kerns will endeavor to bridge the gap between local law enforcement and state victims’ service providers, to ensure a coordinated response to opioid crisis in Nevada.
Kerns, a recently retired Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and a registered nurse, will work to identify and implement best practices concerning the opioid crisis in other states; identify and expand on current best practices regarding the continuum of care from incarceration to release; expand on criminal justice interventions regarding prescription drugs in the community; and bolster law enforcement cooperation with health care providers.
“As a former federal law enforcement officer and registered nurse, Kerns is a perfect fit to assist law enforcement and victim services coordinate responses to the opioid crisis,” said Attorney General Laxalt. “As the chair of Nevada’s Substance Abuse Working Group, I understand that prevention goes hand-in-hand with law enforcement efforts. I look forward to the ways in which Kerns will enhance our ongoing efforts to educate at risk youth in our communities and collaborate with local law enforcement.”
Kerns brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge with degrees in the medical profession and emergency management. Most recently, she served as a supervisory special agent for the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, and has law enforcement experience in multiple states.
“I’m honored to step into this new role where I can prioritize the public’s health and safety,” added Kerns. “I would like to thank Attorney General Laxalt for the opportunity to continue my public service, and look forward to working with the dedicated individuals committed to this mission.”
Kerns is based in the Las Vegas office and may be reached by email at TKerns@ag.nv.gov or by phone at 702-486-0978.
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