Pubdate: Tue, 02 Sep 2003 Source: Amarillo Globe-News (TX) Copyright: 2003 Amarillo Globe-News Contact: http://amarillonet.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/13 PROACTIVE DRUG STANCE BEST FOR RANDALL COUNTY Randall County has a problem that in some people's eyes very well could become a crisis if the county fails to devote substantial resources to battling it. Methamphetamine is on the rise in rural sections of the county. Law enforcement officials, prosecutors and elected officials are promising to spend more money than planned on the arrest, prosecution and imprisoning of those who deal in meth. Let the battle begin. County Judge Ernie Houdashell has proposed a budget of $344,340 for the Narcotics Regional Team, which is charged specifically with getting rid of the meth labs scattered throughout the county. The team comprises Sheriff's Department and Criminal District Attorney's Office personnel. The money being budgeted represents an increase over last year, Houdashell said. He makes the compelling case that it is money well spent. The grisly case of Dustin Pool, who was murdered and buried under concrete in a grain elevator, has brought the meth problem to light in Randall County. Eight people stand accused in connection with Pool's death. The belief among law enforcement officials, though, is that the pervasiveness of drugs spreads far beyond this particular case. That is why the county is intent on ridding itself of this scourge. It also is why the county must pursue this mission with intensity and purpose. - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens