Pubdate: Wed, 05 Oct 2005
Source: Agassiz Harrison Observer (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 Agassiz Observer
Contact:  http://www.agassizharrisonobserver.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1344
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?241 (Methamphetamine - Canada)

DRUGS AND CRIMES FORM SOCIAL ALLIANCE

There's a threat to our society that, although frequently acknowledged
in the media, never seems to get quite the same attention as war or
terrorism.

It's drugs - particularly the newer brands of synthetic garbage that
are mixed in clandestine 'labs' and sold cheaply on the streets and in
our schools.

The destructive impact of drugs like crystal meth and rock cocaine on
our kids, families and communities cannot be overstated. They infest
society and take root by addicting users in ways we could never have
imagined.

Unlike the almost laissez-faire attitude we seem to provide soft drugs
like marijuana, there is a genuine danger inherent to 'designer' drugs
- - which are more potent and affordable - that needs to be addressed
very seriously.

I recently viewed a short video about crystal meth, which shared the
stories of various addicts and parents of addicts. What struck me was
how the addictions spread beyond the users to envelop their families
and friends in a veritable nightmare of endless anxiety and worry.

Meanwhile, users are playing Russian roulette with their lives,
ingesting a frightening smorgasbord of industrial chemicals, including
solvents and corrosives. Products that can eat through metal pots are
being put into this junk.

On the heels of addiction comes crime. Addicts eventually run out of
their own money and often resort to stealing from their own circle of
friends and family or committing property crimes for items they can
sell for quick cash.

The key to combatting this is education, education, education. As
everyone becomes more aware of crystal meth and its consequences,
hopefully it will steer potential users from ever taking that first
hit.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin