News Release Lincoln Police Department
Between July 24, 2021, and August 19, 2021, the Lincoln community experienced an increase in reported drug overdoses related to cocaine laced with fentanyl. Our agency investigated 35 overdoses during that time, nine of which resulted in death. Additionally, one surviving victim was pregnant, and the baby did not survive. We continue to send our condolences to the families and friends of those affected.
The Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force has been working non-stop to investigate the source of the drugs that have been devastating our community. Our investigators have conducted interviews, analyzed evidence, served search warrants, and made arrests. Investigators gathered information that 35-year-old Anna Idigima and 35-year-old George Weaver Jr., both of Lincoln, were involved in the distribution of illicit drugs. Idigima was found to be an employee of the Nebraska State Patrol working in the evidence unit. Our agency, along with the Nebraska State Patrol, did an audit of NSP’s evidence facilities in Lincoln and determined that drugs were missing including cocaine and fentanyl during the time of her employment.
Investigators learned the Idigima and Weaver were involved in a relationship and resided together. Investigators traced the trail from some the overdoses to the original source which was determined to be Idigima and Weaver. On September 23, 2021, Anna Idigima and George Weaver were arrested for Conspiracy to Distribute 140 grams or more of Cocaine and Fentanyl.
We recognize that some of our citizens suffer from various addictions or have friends and loved ones who do. We are fortunate to have community resources available to help. For more information, visit the Lincoln/Lancaster County Health Department’s overdose prevention webpage at lincoln.ne.gov/od.
The investigation into overdoses is still ongoing. We encourage anyone with information to contact the Lincoln Police Department at 402-441-6000, the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force at 402-441-8181, or Crime Stoppers at 402-475-3600.