Pubdate: Sat, 24 Mar 2001 Source: Munster Times (IN) Copyright: 2001 The Munster Times Contact: The Times, 601 45th Ave., Munster, IN 46321 Fax: (219) 933-3249 Website: http://www.thetimesonline.com/ DRUG CHARGES ON THE RISE CROWN POINT -- Prosecutors are charging more drug offenders because police are more proficient at spotting drugs and drug paraphernalia during traffic stops. Lake County Prosecutor Bernard A. Carter said his staff filed more than 800 drug charges last year -- a 33 percent increase over 1999. Carter said better police techniques account for the increase. He said Chris McQuillin, his drug unit supervisor, and deputy prosecutors provide police with around-the-clock legal advice that helps them file charges in a more timely manner. - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D