Pubdate: Wed, 20 Jan 2016
Source: Journal-Pioneer, The (CN PI)
Copyright: 2016 Journal-Pioneer
Contact:  http://www.journalpioneer.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2789
Author: Nancy MacPhee
Page: A2

SPEED'S IMPACT

Speed leaves its users emaciated, strung out and paranoid. And its
growing presence often leads to an increase in violent crimes, said
Cpl. Andy Cooke, head of the Prince District Joint Forces Operation
Drug Unit.

"Everyone (involved with speed) starts carrying weapons. They take it
up a notch and become that much more violent," said the veteran drug
enforcement officer.

"We had reports of drug collections over $200, people getting beat up
and beat up bad. That is part of the drug world to begin with, but I
think this just magnifies it."

People using speed get addicted, fast.

"It does have a devastating effect on the body," said
Cooke.

Chronic users crush and snort the drug, leading to nasal issues caused
by irritation from the remaining crystalline, much like with cocaine
users. Dr. Don Ling, who heads a once-weekly addictions clinic at
Prince County Hospital, said the drug is showing up more frequently
among his clients.

Its users range in age, starting as early as junior
high.

Ling, who first saw the drug used in diet pills early in his medical
career, said "One of the attractions of this speed use with young
females is that they think they can manage their weight by using this
product.

"It is a trap."
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MAP posted-by: Matt