Monday, a check was given to each participating chief in Belmont County. The reimbursements given to the department are almost $800, and will be given several times throughout the year to help pay officers for the time they dedicate to the force.

So far, the Task Force has helped get almost $25,000 in drugs off the streets of Belmont County. “We’re very pleased that we’re able to reimburse these departments during these tough financial times for the investment they’ve made in the Belmont County Drug Task Force,” said Chris Berhalter, a Belmont County prosecuting attorney.

“Hopefully we’ll put some people on notice. That we might not get you today, we might not get you tomorrow, but we’re aware of you and we’re doing things to solve the problem,” said Chief Mike Kovalyk, of Bellaire.

Each member of the Drug Task Force is also a member of a county police department.