Pubdate: Sun, 23 Jun 2002 Source: Morning Star, The (CN BC) Copyright: 2002 The Morning Star Contact: http://www.vernonmorningstar.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1352 DRUG TRADE IS SOCIETY'S PROBLEM Children are always taught not to tattle-tale and it's wrong to get someone into trouble. However, that's a concept that needs to be scrapped if society is to get a handle on the drug problem. A recent study shows that the number of marijuana grow operations in B.C. is increasing at a rapid rate. Between 2000 and 2001, enforcement of drugs skyrocketed a shocking 31 per cent in Vernon. While obviously these illegal activities drain police resources, the largest impact is on the lives touched by addiction. Sons, daughters, fathers, mothers and friends are among the victims of traffickers, and the changes they undergo affect loved ones. Frequently, these cases end in tragedy. Beyond this, we should remember that much of the residential and business crime is a result of people stealing to feed their habit. We're all touched by drugs. RCMP in the North Okanagan do a valiant job, but they can't be everywhere. That's why it's crucial that people keep an eye out for suspicious activity, whether on a street corner or at a neighbour's yard. The police need extra eyes and ears to help them. It may never be possible to win the war on drugs, but the community needs to rally the troops and do what it can. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom