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<p>HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) &#8212; The top federal prosecutor for central and northeastern Pennsylvania is outlining a new effort to combat the prescription painkiller and heroin epidemic.</p><p>U.S. Attorney Bruce Brandler of Pennsylvania&#8217;s Middle District says opioid cases, particularly those resulting in death, will take &#8220;the highest priority&#8221; and will be &#8220;prosecuted aggressively to ensure maximum deterrence.&#8221;</p><p>Brandler said in a news release that his office will aggressively prosecute &#8220;rogue health care providers, pharmacists and pharmaceutical employees&#8221; in addition to drug traffickers.</p><p>The prosecutor released a strategy memo this week that includes elements focusing on prevention and treatment.</p><p>The U.S. Department of Justice issued a national opioid strategy in September and ordered each U.S. attorney&#8217;s office to come up with a local strategy.</p><style>
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<div class="metaInfo"><bylineMeta><p>Asssociated Press</p></bylineMeta></div>

Federal prosecutor in Pa. outlines effort to combat opioid epidemic