The public can learn about illegal drugs at a June 18 meeting hosted by CANDLE Inc., a nonprofit drug prevention group, and Butler County District Attorney Rich Goldinger.

The Drug Trends Forum for Western Pennsylvania will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Family Pathways, 100 Brugh Ave.

The speakers include members of the state police, medical and legal professionals.

Goldinger said in a news release, “The drug problem in Butler County and Western Pennsylvania is not just a law enforcement issue, but a community issue. One way we, as a community, can combat the drug problem is to educate our citizens about the various aspects of the drug issues.”

Topics to be discussed will include drug cases and prosecution, drugs in society, signs and symptoms of drug use, gang activity, drug overdoses and treatment and school and community partnership in prevention.

Frank Cichra, a retired state police drug recognition expert and a CANDLE board member, will lead the discussion on drugs in society and the signs and symptoms of drug use.

State trooper Dave Titley, also a CANDLE board member, and state police community services officer Ron Keston will talk about gang activity.

Dr. Reginald Reginella of Butler Memorial Hospital will present information about drug overdose and treatment.

Continuing education credits are offered to EMT’s who attend. This was possible with the aid of Butler Ambulance Service, a co-sponsor.

“It is so important to keep the public as well as our service providers current with drug trends and prevalence of use,” said Norma Norris, CANDLE executive director, in a state about the need for such a public session.

Registration is online at www.CandleInc.org. The cost to attend is $20, and lunch is provided.