Hampden County Sheriff's Department

Throughout the opioid epidemic, Western Massachusetts has long been one of the hardest hit regions in the state, with Hampden County having one of the highest opioid overdose rates in the commonwealth. Numbers are still high, but local officials are reporting progress and touting a special team that’s been making inroads.

Following weeks of intense training and challenges, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office welcomed a new class of correctional officers Friday. Compared to past graduations, it’s a smaller class – in line with national trends – but as recruits and instructors told WAMC – the mission remains the same.

Officials in Chicopee, Massachusetts say a new program will provide a lifeline for some of the city’s most vulnerable residents if ever they go missing.

Law enforcement in western Massachusetts say they’re seeing a rise in crypto-related scams – with one in particular costing victims thousands of dollars.

A regional task force is returning as western Massachusetts city leaders and police reiterate they won’t tolerate illegal dirt bike riding.

An inflatable bounce house is not something typically associated with combating crime. But fun activities, food, and music will be featured at a…