“The idea is to create a sense of shock so profound that those in charge ‘won’t understand anything about the ‘movie’ they’re in’.” Rédoine Faïd’s plan to escape from a maximum-security prison was so absurd that everyone could only stare in awe; the guards were so sure that no helicopters could land on the prison’s kevlar wire-covered premises, but Faïd’s accomplices managed to find a midcentury chopper small enough to squeeze through the open courtyard and whisk the criminal away. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
