Pubdate: Wed, 08 May 2002
Source: San Diego Union Tribune (CA)
Copyright: 2002 Union-Tribune Publishing Co.
Contact:  http://www.uniontrib.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/386
Author: Jeff McDonald

13 SAILORS ON CARRIER NIMITZ ARRESTED IN METH, ECSTASY CASE

Navy investigators have arrested 13 sailors assigned to the San Diego-based 
aircraft carrier Nimitz on suspicion of using and distributing 
methamphetamine and Ecstasy, military officials said yesterday.The Naval 
Criminal Investigative Service confirmed the arrests, but officials 
declined to release many details about the case.

Navy spokesman Cmdr. David Koontz said all suspects "have been returned to 
the custody of their command" while the investigation is under way, but he 
was unable to say whether the sailors were back aboard the Nimitz.No 
information was available about what quantities of illegal drugs were 
found. It also was unclear how long the investigation might take or what 
penalties the suspects face if they are found guilty."These sailors are 
suspected of use, possession and distribution of Ecstasy and 
methamphetamine," said Cmdr. Jack Papp of the Naval Air Force U.S. Pacific 
Fleet.

"Due to privacy considerations, we won't release their names."Papp declined 
to identify the suspects but said they worked in the weapons department 
aboard the carrier and were assigned duties ranging from aviation ordnance 
to maintenance and supply.Navy officials downplayed the incidence of drug 
use among sailors, noting they have a zero-tolerance policy and test 
randomly for illegal drug use.

"The problem with drugs has diminished significantly," Koontz said. "The 
message is very clear throughout the force that drugs are not to be 
tolerated."The carrier arrived in its new home port of San Diego in 
November, following a three-year overhaul and refueling of its nuclear 
reactors in Norfolk, Va.
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