The manufacturer of the highly controversial painkiller OxyContin says it has scored a string of victories in various suits against the company and its representatives. Two of the cases were before federal judges in Beckley. "These victories continue to vindicate our policy of vigorously defending each and every one of these baseless lawsuits," said Howard Udell, executive vice president and general counsel for Purdue Pharma. "We have not and will not pay to settle these cases."

Udell said one case has been closed by the court, and in another, the judge ruled the "plaintiff has no possibility of a recovery against our sales representative."

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When it comes to violent crimes and drug activity, numbers compiled by the Beckley Police Department indicate quite a fluctuation over the past five years. They are not among the most prevalent offenses within the city limits, but statistics indicate particular areas are more affected than others, something of which citizens may not be aware.

Regardless of the number of officers on duty, victims' calls always take precedent over road patrol, Capt. Bill Kelly said. Ironically, he added, it is when officers are on road patrol that most drug arrests are made.

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Complaint says company is responsible for past, future medical treatment, expenses The manufacturer of a highly controversial painkiller is being sued by a Beaver resident.

Filed in the Raleigh County Circuit Clerk's office is a complaint against Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin. Chris Umberger of Airport Road alleges the company manufactured and distributed the "dangerous and defective" OxyContin, causing him addiction, mental and physical pain and suffering.

OxyContin, produced in strengths of 10, 20, 40 and 80 milligrams, was created for patients suffering from cancer and intractable pain such as back problems. However, drug investigators say it is a popular street drug, alongside heroin and cocaine.

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