Pubdate: Thu, 08 Aug 2002
Source: Daily Ardmoreite, The (OK)
Copyright: 2002 Daily Ardmoreite
Contact: http://ardmoreite.com/stText/sendLetter.html
Website: http://www.ardmoreite.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1574
Author: The Norman Transcript

ELIMINATING DEMAND IS BEST WAY TO ATTACK STATE'S METH PROBLEM

Oklahoma ranks the highest in the nation per capita in the number of meth 
lab seizures. The methamphetamine epidemic across the nation and especially 
in its heartland was the subject of a one-day conference last month in 
Oklahoma City. Delegates included law enforcement representatives, elected 
officials, neighborhood leaders and federal officials. U.S. Rep. Brad 
Carson used the summit to announce he would propose federal legislation to 
assist rural law enforcement agencies.

Money from the legislation would provide grants to hire and train officers 
and buy equipment. Mr. Carson said sheriffs and police chiefs in eastern 
Oklahoma have told him they need money for new equipment and help in 
recruitment and retention of officers.

Law enforcement officers, particularly in rural areas, need better 
equipment when they raid meth labs. Often, the labs are set up in abandoned 
houses, motor homes and even the trunks of vehicles. The toxins produced in 
the manufacture can be deadly.

We're pleased the legislation also includes more funding for treatment 
programs for meth addicts. Cutting of the supply is temporary. Eliminating 
the demand is a better way to attack the problem.

- -- The Norman Transcript
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MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens