When we glance at our television or browse through news feeds, we never really know what to expect nowadays, particularly when it comes to incidences involving drugs. As the Opioid Crisis continues to sweep across our country, we have witnessed large numbers of fatalities (including the high-profile deaths of iconic signers Tom Petty and Prince) and have continued to witness West Virginia and Ohio receive the full brunt of this epidemic. Let’s also not forget the string of controversy surrounding marijuana, as well as the endless torrent of crystal meth busts. So, what happens when we throw Hollywood into the mix? In the end, you get situations like the one involving a former American Idol contestant and a package of dangerous drugs. Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
A String of Arrests
According to a report posted by Fox News, 32-year old Antonella Barba (a former contestant on the hit reality series American Idol) was arrested for attempting to transport drugs, including 2 pounds of the deadly painkiller fentanyl. Originally a resident of New Jersey, Barba had been close to making a successful future, reaching the 16th spot on the singing contest and making a cameo appearance on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live (as part of the segment “Where Are They Now?”). However, the singer has had more than one brush-in with the law on several occasions.
Clashing with the Law
Needless to say, this is not the first time that Barba has been on the wrong side of the law. During her arrest last year, Barba was convicted of transporting an estimated 830 grams of fentanyl, with cocaine and heroin later being added to the list of illegal substances. Additionally, the Virginia Pilot confirmed the singer was also facing charges for a felony crime involving marijuana (which is still illegal on the federal level). Meanwhile, in 2011, police detained Barba for shoplifting, while she also raised controversy for a “wet T-shirt contest” in 2007.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Addiction
Opioids are extremely potent and dangerous drugs that have a high risk for abuse and addiction and can be particularly dangerous for both adults and teens alike. These substances can trigger severe dependency and a string of unpleasant health problems (including residual pain) as well. Although these drugs can easily help people cope with severe pain, opioids are still dangerous and have been responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people. If you have a history of substance abuse or addiction, we recommend you find an alternative to opioids. In the even that you are suffering from opioid use disorder, though, understand that you can always find the help you need.
Are you suffering from a severe case of opioid addiction? Do you have a friend or a family member who is coping with one of these issues, as well? On both accounts, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward combating the Opioid Crisis.
