Montpelier, Vt. – Governor Phil Scott today issued the following statement following Wednesday’s major law enforcement action in Springfield:

“First of all, I want to express my sincere appreciation to our law enforcement officers, including our partners in the U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, DEA, ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the Vermont State Police, Windsor County State’s Attorney and Springfield Police Department, for months of hard, intelligence-based investigative work that will weaken a network of criminal activity in the region.

“Operations like this disrupt the supply of deadly and addictive drugs, take illegal guns off the street, and hold drug dealers accountable for poisoning Vermonters for profit. They also create an opportunity to help those suffering from addiction get back on the right path through our social service systems.

“There are many resources available for treatment and recovery and I’ve directed the Agency of Human Services and the Department of Public Safety to work more closely together to surge these resources into areas where law enforcement is disrupting large drug operations.

“This includes outpatient programs; inpatient support; recovery and risk reduction resources; and more. These and others can be found at www.VTHelpLink.org, and I hope those in need will reach out.

“To those who continue to profit on human suffering, this is evidence of our commitment to disrupt your systems and get those you prey upon the help they need and deserve.

“Public safety is the top priority of any government. We are going to continue to work together with our partners to ensure all Vermonters can enjoy the safest, healthiest communities in the country.”