KOKOMO, Ind. (AP): A central Indiana county prosecutor says he opposes a proposed syringe exchange program, saying it is no way to solve the drug problem.

Howard County Prosecutor Mark McCann told the Kokomo Tribune the only thing the proposed exchange program would do is promote illicit drug use. He says that would further endanger local drug users by giving them easier access to drug paraphernalia.

The county health department has announced it is preparing for the potential adoption of the exchange program to minimize the transfer of HIV and hepatitis C, and to put drug users in contact with health care, social welfare services and mental health treatment.

The state Health Department has given the county a $25,000 grant to develop an exchange program and training in case it becomes necessary.