On Oct. 29 the Bangor Daily News reported about a drug-related robbery of an elderly woman in Millinocket in its article, “Thief holds 60-year-old woman at knifepoint for OxyContin.” This is the second violent attack to happen in Millinocket within six months. The assailants in both of these crimes were seeking OxyContin, a powerful pain medication, which is highly addictive.

Being raised in East Millinocket, I can remember not having to lock our doors at night and feeling separated from the crime that you see on the nightly news. Something needs to be done about the growing substance abuse problems plaguing many people in Maine. Citizens should not have to worry about being robbed or assaulted as they sleep at night. I hope the police are able to track down these pitiful individuals responsible for these crimes.

Aaron Birt

East Millinocket