Pubdate: Mon, 21 Jul 2003
Source: Wilmington Morning Star (NC)
Copyright: 2003 Wilmington Morning Star
Contact:  http://www.wilmingtonstar.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/500
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/meth.htm (Methamphetamine)

PROSECUTORS APPLY TERROR LAWS TO DRUGS

WINSTON-SALEM (AP) - Following the lead of Watauga County, other district 
attorneys in North Carolina are considering using antiterrorism laws to 
prosecute accused methamphetamine producers.

Watauga County District Attorney Jerry Wilson last week charged a man 
accused of running a methamphetamine lab with violating state laws 
involving the manufacture of nuclear or chemical weapons. The statute, 
passed in November 2001 carries a stiffer sentence than most drug laws.

Forsyth County District Attorney Tom Keith said his office's policy now is 
that "we will put B1 felonies on anyone having anything to do with 
methamphetamines."

To link the drug's production to chemical weapons, prosecutors referred to 
the toxic and combustible nature of the chemicals involved in 
methamphetamine production. They said those responding to calls involving 
the drug are at risk of serious injury.

Several defense lawyers reacted to Mr. Wilson's decision with a mix of 
skepticism and concern for the rights of the accused. Forsyth County public 
defender Pete Clary said Mr. Wilson might be overstepping his bounds.

"I think it's up to the legislature to decide whether the law is woefully 
insufficient," Mr. Clary said. "The DA is charged with enforcing the laws 
on the books, not as he wishes they were."
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