PROSECUTORS APPLY TERROR LAWS TO DRUGS

WINSTON-SALEM (AP) - Following the lead of Watauga County, other district
attorneys in North Carolina are considering using antiterrorism laws to
prosecute accused methamphetamine producers.

Watauga County District Attorney Jerry Wilson last week charged a man
accused of running a methamphetamine lab with violating state laws
involving the manufacture of nuclear or chemical weapons. The statute,
passed in November 2001 carries a stiffer sentence than most drug laws.

Forsyth County District Attorney Tom Keith said his office's policy now is
that "we will put B1 felonies on anyone having anything to do with
methamphetamines."

To link the drug's production to chemical weapons, prosecutors referred to
the toxic and combustible nature of the chemicals involved in
methamphetamine production. They said those responding to calls involving
the drug are at risk of serious injury.

Several defense lawyers reacted to Mr. Wilson's decision with a mix of
skepticism and concern for the rights of the accused. Forsyth County public
defender Pete Clary said Mr. Wilson might be overstepping his bounds.

"I think it's up to the legislature to decide whether the law is woefully
insufficient," Mr. Clary said. "The DA is charged with enforcing the laws
on the books, not as he wishes they were."