Episode 53: Goodbye Ashtrey

[Trey Helten stands inside the Overdose Prevention Society in December of 2021. He pulls open his jacket open to show a black hoody with the message: “Shoot dope. Fuck the cops.” (Photo by Alexander Kim)]

We lost another soldier from the front lines. Trey Helten, longtime manager of the Overdose Prevention Society and all around harm reduction hero on the Downtown Eastside, has died at 42. Trey saved hundreds of lives. He was a friend to Crackdown and often helped connect us with community members. He was featured on the show twice. Today we’re listening back to both segments. 

Trey, we’re heartbroken. Rest in power.

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There is a fundraiser to support Trey’s partner and kids. Please donate if you can. <3

[Trey Helten stands in front of OPS in December 2021. (Photo by Alexander Kim)]

[Trey holds up one of his cartoon paintings inside an old OPS location in 2019. (Photo by Alex de Boer)]

Credits

Crackdown is produced on the territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil Waututh Nations.

Our editorial board is Dean Wilson, Jeff Louden, Laura Shaver, Samona Marsh, Elli Taylor, Delilah Gregg, and Martin Steward. Rest in peace Dave Murray, Greg Fresz, Chereece Keewatin and Shelda Kastor. 

This episode was conceptualized, written, and produced by Garth Mullins, Sam Fenn, Alex de Boer, and Lisa Hale. 

The radio clips and credit song are from OPS Radio on Vancouver Co-op Radio. You can listen to the full episode here.

All other music by Blue Dot Sessions.

If you like what we do at Crackdown, please support us at patreon.com/crackdownpod.

Thanks for listening. Stay safe and keep six.