Pubdate: Fri, 23 Jan 2004
Source: Oak Ridger (TN)
Copyright: 2004 The Oak Ridger
Contact:  http://www.oakridger.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1146

TENNESSEE KICKS OFF METHWATCH PROGRAM

The Drug Investigation Division of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, 
in partnership with the Governor's office, the Tennessee Police Chiefs 
Association, the Tennessee Retail Association and the Tennessee Sheriffs 
Association, Thursday launched the Tennessee MethWatch Program - a new 
statewide effort designed to crack down on the spread of methamphetamines. 
"Meth abuse is reaching epidemic proportions in Tennessee, particularly in 
rural communities," said Governor Phil Bredesen in a press release from the 
Tennessee Department of Safety. " l want to get serious about cracking down 
on the problem."

The MethWatch program combines a public information campaign with an 
intelligence collection system, centering around a 24-hour TBI meth hotline 
1-877-TNN-METH (877-866-6384). It is intended to provide both a simple and 
cost-effective means of deterring meth manufacture and gathering critical 
intelligence about potential violators for law enforcement.

An aggressive public information campaign is being launched to educate the 
public about the problem.

In addition, a more focused public education effort is being waged in 
partnership with retailers across the state. Methamphetamine, known as the 
"poor man's cocaine" is often manufactured from commonly available 
household chemicals like cold medicines, lithium batteries and household 
cleansers. Signs and posters identifying these items will be prominently 
displayed in hundreds of businesses across the state that sell the products 
used in making meth.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman