The Gloucester Police chief took to social media after a string of overdoses in the city with an emotional plea.

The chief also credited the availability of the drug Narcan with saving those people’s lives.

In the post, which is getting a lot of attention, he directly addressed those suffering from addiction.

Four people overdosed on heroin in Gloucester during a 24-hour period over the weekend.

"It appears we are dealing with something that is either stronger or laced," Gloucester Police Chief Leonard Campanello said.

All four were treated with Narcan.

On Facebook, Campanello said, "There is recovery and a new life that can and should be yours. You deserve it. Your life is more meaningful than your death. Don’t be ashamed of your illness. We are not ashamed of you. It’s time…come get the help…"

"Four in one day definitely instills a sense of urgency about this topic," he said. "We simply can’t wait any longer, 32 people are dying every day and when this happens it accentuates the urgency of the situation."

Campanello said more than 375 people have entered treatment programs after coming to the police department, but there is much more work to be done.

"I think the post was a reiteration that we need to do better to reduce the shame and the stigma and to get more people to come forward and get help for this," he said.

There have been relapses through Gloucester’s Angel Program and one person died, but some are recovering from their addiction.

"There is hope, there is hope that they can reenter society, reconnect, be productive, lead good lives and that’s something everyone deserves," Campanello said.

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