It’s a known fact that Arkansas is one of the leading states in the nation in the production of meth. Why is this true? It’s because Arkansas, mainly Northwest Arkansas, has various remote and secluded areas that these clandestine meth producers can operate in without detection from local law-enforcement authorities.

Twenty-five years ago, the drug of choice in Northwest Arkansas was marijuana because drug producers would grow this illegal substance in isolated and quarantined-off areas.

The drug of choice today is meth because this drug is somewhat simple to manufacture with everyday household chemicals.

In closing, I appreciate the law-enforcement efforts of Sheriff Andy Lee and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office in sending a formidable message to meth producers in Northwest Arkansas. Keep up the good work.

Bill Boatright, Huntsville

[end]