Pubdate: Tue, 10 Dec 2002
Source: Augusta Chronicle, The (GA)
Copyright: 2002 The Augusta Chronicle
Contact:  http://www.augustachronicle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/31
Author: Josh Gelinas

CITY GETS FUNDS FROM DRUG CASE

The city of Aiken recently turned what officials say might be the biggest 
profit ever in its battle against drugs. City Manager Roger LeDuc told the 
city council Monday night that Aiken Public Safety will receive $103,000 
from the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.

He told the council members that the money - which had been seized by Aiken 
officers last year - was never claimed.

"That was my money, Roger," Councilwoman Beverly Clyburn said, bringing 
laughter from other members on the council.

About a year ago, public safety officers took a drug-sniffing dog to Mail 
Boxes Etc. near the Aiken Mall. The dog discovered a box containing between 
$130,000 and $140,000 in cash covered in drug residue, Mr. LeDuc said.

It is probably the largest drug-related confiscation in Aiken's history, 
including the confiscation of cars and homes, Public Safety Director Pete 
Frommer said.

He said drug traffickers leave their mark on more money than people think.

"Whatever kind of drug they're dealing with, when they touch money they 
contaminate the money," Mr. Frommer said.

The discovered package had a West Coast address. Whenever a package 
containing drugs or drug money is intercepted, Mr. Frommer said, the DEA 
typically confiscates the package and delivers an empty one to the addressee.

The money will be reinvested into drug enforcement, Mr. LeDuc said.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens