When a seizure strikes, Joshua Cook typically hits the ground. His hands clench spastically into fists. His torso contorts. His body shakes uncontrollably for several minutes. The condition first struck the 25-year-old National Guard veteran while he was serving in Iraq three years ago. After receiving a medical discharge, he was prescribed a slew of drugs that either made him sick, caused headaches or simply didn't prevent his convulsions. Then he tried a notorious herbal remedy that's more widely known as a recreational escape. [continues 1079 words]
Law enforcement leaders met Wednesday to discuss gang activity and meth labs - two of the more prominent criminal threats to the Twin Counties. Officials said Rocky Mount is not yet known as a haven for either crime. But they intend to be proactive, curbing the network that is causing the problems before they get out of control. "The idea is we want to work together," said Lt. Scott Parker of the Nash County Sheriff's Department. "We want to be prepared." Rocky Mount police Cpl. Chris Johnson gave an overview of the city's gang activity. He said there is really no way to categorize the problem here compared to surrounding areas. But while not nearly as severe as in Los Angeles, he said it is significant enough to warrant close attention. That proved even more true with the recent underground release of a DVD that advertises the gang presence in Rocky Mount, Johnson said. Titled "Welcome to the Mount," the DVD features home video footage of gang members in local neighborhoods. Along with some narration, it also depicts people brandishing guns and evidence of assault and prostitution, Johnson said. "It's patterned after a similar DVD that was made about gang activity in Durham three years ago," Johnson said. [continues 364 words]
Some pharmacies in Rocky Mount are still adjusting to a new state law that restricts the sale of cold medications to thwart the production of methamphetamine. The legislation adds a step to the process of purchasing some over-the-counter pills. But several pharmacists and consumers this week said it's a small inconvenience for crimping the manufacture of an illegal drug. "None of our customers have seemed to mind," said Barbara Coley, staff pharmacist at Thompson Pharmacy on Falls Road. "It seems like (the law is) serving a worthy purpose." [continues 508 words]
