Pubdate: Tue, 31 Aug 2004
Source: Wausau Daily Herald (WI)
Copyright: 2004 Wausau Daily Herald
Contact:  http://www.wausaudailyherald.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1321
Author: Jerri Geiger

AUTHORITIES ARE IGNORING MERRILL DRUGS

The Merrill area is infested with drugs and the hazards that result from 
them. One of the drugs is methamphetamine. Law enforcement is very much 
aware of it, as are prosecutors.

One of my many questions is, do residents realize the vastness of this 
infiltrator? Would others like me want to know what is being done to wipe 
out this problem? I hope so. Chances are their children or their children's 
friends are confronted with this deadly and addictive drug.

It has been about a year since I became aware of this drug in our area. In 
my opinion, not much has been done to keep it contained.

Sure, some people get arrested. But they are back on the streets almost 
immediately. Then there is plea bargaining to lesser charges. Drug users 
have weapons. They lie, steal and commit other crimes to support their 
addictions.

I also know local law enforcement only can do so much. But I would like to 
know what it is going to take before some major cleaning up is done. I also 
would like to know how the priorities of prosecutors are decided. What are 
they? Will other candidates for district attorney be any different? Is this 
issue even thought about before elections? What is the justification for 
allowing the meth operations and meth users to get away with a slap on the 
wrist?

Something should be done about this disease.

Jerri Geiger, Merrill
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