Dartmouth Mall Display Shows Hidden Signs Of Substance Abuse

Shoppers at the Dartmouth Mall on Saturday will have an opportunity to learn more about how signs of drug and alcohol use can be hidden by teenagers.

Gregg Miliote, the Director of Communications for the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, tells WBSM News that the "Hidden In Plain Sight" exhibit, which will be on display at the Old Navy store, is designed to look like a typical teenage bedroom and demonstrates how seemingly innocuous items can be used to mask substance abuse.

"There will be volunteers from our office who can kind of guide the viewer through the exhibit to show them the different items and what those things are used for," said Miliote.

The exhibit was previously held at the Silver City Galleria in Taunton last month.

Miliote says that thousands of parents saw the exhibit and for most it was a real eye-opening experience.

"When the parents first go into this I think most of them think, 'well, you know, I know what to look for, the signs' but nowadays the most mundane items can be used for substance abuse," said Miliote.

The "Hidden In Plain Sight" exhibit is open to adults 21 years of age and older and will be on display between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.