All drugs, be it those that are considered illegal or the others that we have permission to use such as alcohol and cigarettes, come their own dangers. Howevern, there is growing concern over the increasing trends of some of the most dangerous. Crystal methamphetamine and oxycotin have proven to be instant killers. The dramatic increase in the production and usage of these drugs are keeping law enforcement agencies across the country very busy. This is especially true in rural areas. Crystal meth increases arousal in the central nervous system by pumping up levels of two neurotransmitters - norepinephrine and dopamine. At low doses, it boosts alertness and blocks hunger and fatigue. At higher doses, it causes exhilaration and euphoria. At very high doses, the drug can cause agitation, paranoia and bizarre behavior. Physical effects include increased heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature. [continues 345 words]
Escambia County officials charged with the task of fighting illegal drug activity received some good news this week as a grant was awarded that allows for the continuation of the 21st Judicial Drug Task Force. Confirmation was sent to the Escambia County Commission from the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs that a $210,000 grant would be awarded for the Drug Task Force program. Matching funds totalling $70,000 has been committed by local agencies. The grant application was submitted in July. Each year, the task force must reapply for the grant in order to maintain operations. [continues 626 words]
Over the past few years, rural area law enforcement agencies throughout south Alabama have found a new and dangerous enemy. The rise in use and distribution of crystal methamphetamine over the past five years has been nothing short of extraordinary. Crystal meth, also known as crystal or crank, is the most hyper-charged member of the amphetamine drug family. Widely used in the 1960s and early 70s for its intense effects, crystal virtually disappeared in the mid-70s. But, it resurfaced in the 80s and made its way to rural America during the 90s. [continues 517 words]
Sheriff-elect Grover Smith may be half a year from taking office, but he knew during his campaign what issues he most wanted to face if elected. Throughout the campaign, Smith spoke of battling drugs in the county. He said he wants the sheriff's office to take an active role in educating young people about the dangers of drug use. To meet that goal, he said he wants the department to take a more active role in the schools. "My number one priority is to try different things to fight the county's drug problem," he said. "I feel that the school resource officer is a wonderful thing that can help educate and protect students. Fighting drugs has to start by educating our children at a younger age." [continues 267 words]
The 21st Judicial Drug Task Force got a Christmas present straight from the governor's office this week that will help them fight drugs in Escambia County. Governor Don Siegelman has awarded $210,000 to continue the battle against illegal use and distribution within the county. The governor notified Escambia County Commission Chairman Larry White that the grant had been approved to continue the operation of the 21st Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force. Local matching funds of $70,000 have been committed to the project by Escambia County. [continues 318 words]
