Pubdate: Tue, 27 Jan 2004
Source: Shawnee News-Star (OK)
Copyright: 2004 The Shawnee News-Star
Contact:  http://www.onlineshawnee.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/412
Author: Kimberly D. Morava

AGENTS SAY METHAMPHETAMINE PROBLEM GROWING

Local drug agents said the methamphetamine problem in this area continues 
to escalate.

Authorities are hoping pending legislation will help in their fight. A bill 
introduced for consideration this term deals with pseudoephedrine control. 
The ingredient, found in many over-the-counter allergy and cold medicines, 
is used to manufacture meth.

The measure also would help authorities when they bust a meth lab because 
offenders will be jailed without bond, the agent said.

The bill is getting attention because of the recent death of a state 
trooper allegedly killed by a suspect accused of making meth in his 
vehicle. In recent years, the drug agent said two other troopers have been 
killed in the line of duty because of methamphetamine-related incidents in 
the state.

The District Attorney's drug task force begins many drug investigations in 
both Pottawatomie and Lincoln Counties from leads called into the anonymous 
tip line. To report suspicious activity or a possible meth lab, call the 
tip line at (405) 878-5520.

The task force also is working to raise additional monies to acquire a 
second K-9 drug dog for the agents' drug interdiction efforts in this area.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman