Pubdate: Tue, 06 Jun 2000 Source: The Paris News (TX) Contact: P.O. Box 1078, Paris, Texas 75460 Website: http://www.theparisnews.com FUNDING THE FIGHT AGAINST DRUGS Officials in Washington, D.C. again gave a nod of approval to the local drug task force by awarding a $449,100 grant for drug interdiction efforts. The Regional Controlled Substance Apprehension Program serves Lamar, Fannin, and Red River counties and works to make the streets safer for citizens by shutting down illegal drug operations. RCSAP works closely with other local law enforcement agencies in the war against drugs. The cooperation between those agencies has made the drug interdiction effort in the area a success. Studies have shown a direct connection between illegal drug activity and the crime rate in a community, and every effort to shut down drug operations that create violent criminals should be applauded. Every effort to make the world a safer place for children, every effort to make the world a place where the dangers of illegal drugs do not threaten to steal the innocence and even lives of young people, should be praised. Local officials and RCSAP have made an effort to secure these federal dollars for the war on drugs, and the citizens of Lamar, Red River and Fannin counties should be thankful. Even just one more drug dealer off the street means many more children will grow up in a land of safety and opportunity where they are free from the insidious bonds of illegal drugs. - --- MAP posted-by: Don Beck