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Chattooga County Escalates Its War on Drug Abuse in Northwest Georgia

Education and Enforcement Necessary to Curb Meth Abuse

The Methamphetamine epidemic that has been sweeping the country during the past few years has crept into South Georgia. Methamphetamine, also known as "Meth," "speed," "crank," or "ice," is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that invades the central nervous system. Effects of the drug can last up to 12 hours, according to the Office of National Drug Control Policy, and it is easier to get than ever before.

Law enforcement officials reported that a more diverse group of citizens has begun using the drug. In parts of northern Georgia, it has been reported that Meth has emerged as the primary drug threat. According to the United States Security Council, 25 percent of drug-related federal sentences in Georgia in 2000 were Methamphetamine-related, compared to 15 percent nationwide.

According to the Georgia Drug Threat Assessment conducted by the National Drug Intelligence Center and the Drug Enforcement Administration, Meth poses an increasing threat to Georgia.

Georgia officials have used local resources to train officers and are staying one step ahead of the epidemic.

The Valdosta Police Department Narcotics Division worked more than 400 drug cases last year, not including those cases worked by uniformed officers or other divisions. While local school resource officers assisted in educating local students and monitoring activities in area schools.

The city also supports the local D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program, which gives kids the skills they need to avoid involvement in drugs, gangs, and violence, according to the national DARE Web site.

Both city and county officials agree that educational efforts help create a plateau, but it won't work without enforcement.

Meth is a powerful stimulant that is easy to make with inexpensive ingredients such as pseudoephedrine (cold medicines). Meth use causes rapid or irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, and stroke. Chronic use causes paranoia, hallucinations, repetitive behavior, and delusions. Long-tem use, high dosages, or both can bring on toxic psychosis or violent, aggressive behavior.

If you'd like to learn more, visit these Web sites:
Meth Watch
Georgia Meth Watch
Georgia Drug Threat Assessment
D.A.R.E.
National Drug Control Policy