Pubdate: Fri, 12 Apr 2002
Source: Blade, The (OH)
Copyright: 2002 The Blade
Contact:  http://www.toledoblade.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/48
Author: Carroll Parks
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment)

STRATEGIES IN WAR ON DRUG ABUSE

The Blade has reported on at least three occasions that major quantities of 
marijuana, cocaine, and heroin were seized by our local law enforcement 
officials. This is a strong indication of the prevalence of illegal drug 
activity in our area. I believe our law enforcement officials deserve to be 
applauded for their hard work to decrease the supply of illegal drugs in 
our area. The sad reality of the prevalence of drug use, abuse, possession, 
and addiction is all around us.

It is a known fact that many drug users turn to possessing and selling 
drugs to maintain their addiction. While supply-side strategies to decrease 
the availability of drugs is a good strategy, we also need to have a 
balanced demand-side strategy. If the individuals arrested during these 
three occasions are convicted and incarcerated, eventually they will need 
some form of drug treatment to decrease their likelihood of returning to 
illegal activities.

If treatment services are not available, they will most likely return to 
such activities, which costs taxpayers additional money for jail/prison 
days, legal costs, etc. The cost for a treatment episode is far less than 
the cost for a year in jail or prison.

It is time for us, as Lucas County citizens, to support the demand-side 
strategies by voting "yes" for Issue 3. This will allow Lucas County 
providers to provide prevention, intervention, and treatment services as 
demand-side strategies. The use, abuse, and addiction to drugs is a 
community problem that requires community support.

CARROLL PARKS

President/CEO ,Substance Abuse Services, Inc., Adams Street
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MAP posted-by: Ariel