Richard B Myrus, Substance Abuse, Rhode Island 2024

Rhode Island teens are struggling with the devastating consequences of substance abuse, with addiction and recovery paths laid bare in a powerful new documentary.

Acting U.S. Attorney Richard B. Myrus commented, “Substance abuse continues to take a tremendous toll on every aspect of our communities, on our friends, and our family members.”

The documentary, ‘Circles and Silence,’ made its Rhode Island school debut in Cumberland last week, with presentations to approximately 150 high school students. Several of the individuals profiled in the film appeared in-person at Cumberland High School for the film’s debut and participated in open and frank discussions with the students.

‘Circles and Silence’ documents the distinct paths that led these young people to addiction, in some instances to prison, and their journeys to successfully managing their addiction and recovery to pursue healthy and productive lifestyles.

The United States Attorney’s Office’s Circles and Silence outreach program provides audiences with critical information about substance abuse disorder and the many prevention, recovery, and social service programs available statewide through an expansive network of providers.

The United States Attorney’s Community Outreach Office is available to provide the Circles and Silence program to Rhode Island students grades 7-12, and to community and not-for-profit organizations at no cost. To learn more about the Circles and Silence Program or to schedule a presentation, contact United States Attorney’s Office Community Engagement & Crime Prevention Coordinator David Neill at (401) 709-5035 or at David.Neill@USDOJ.gov

The documentary film ‘Circles and Silence’ was produced collaboratively by the United States Attorney’s Office and three Rhode Island-based production companies, Left of Creative, DK Communications, and Ocean State Video.

Video clips of the film may be viewed and/or downloaded at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ri/circles-and-silence.

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