Pubdate: Mon, 11 Apr 2011
Source: News-Journal (Mansfield, OH)
Copyright: 2011 News-Journal.
Contact: http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/customerservice/contactus.html
Website: http://www.mansfieldnewsjournal.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2413
Author: Robert Cleckner

IT'S TIME TO ADDRESS DRUG PROBLEM IN COUNTY

The News Journal headlines of March 29 led with "Drug charges 
possible after TV Program" and upon further reading I was horrified 
to find that Shelby Police filed charges against the Oprah network 
because they actually showed the truth about drug addiction in 
America. It was real reporting, not the news we have been spoon fed 
by other media. It wasn't pretty, but it was real. Death and 
dependency are ugly, but the final result of a life of chemical dependency.

After a Lisa Ling expose on drug and heroin problem in the greater 
Richland Count area, Shelby Police are more concerned about their 
image than dealing with the awful truth about our drug problem, as 
you quoted "You pick (ed) on an area like Richland County, and it 
makes us look like we're the worst there is in the country, Simply not true."

What a statement, in other words it's OK to have a drug problem; we 
just don't want to be the worst in the country. Shelby Police 
Department, stop worrying about your image. We have a very serious 
drug problem in Richland County; just ask the County Coroner if you 
need corroboration.

Richland county residents, wake up. Parents, go to your schools and 
demand they perform random drug tests on their students. Parents, if 
you suspect your child is using illegal drugs perform a drug test on 
your child. Demand all athletes be tested before and during the 
season for drug use. Students, stop this code of silence and allowing 
others that you see on drugs to continue without intervention. Tell 
your teacher, friends, parents if you know of drug usage. Your 
actions may save your friend's life boundaries. Question your kids 
and get involved with their peers. Parents, get help if you are 
addicted to prescription drugs. Set an example for your child that 
does not include drug misuse.

I am not sure about you, but I am "mad as hell and I am not going to 
take it anymore."

Robert Cleckner

Mansfield
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