RISING DRUG USE WORRIES RCMP

The growing use of crystal methamphetamine has local RCMP worried.

The drug is known as speed, meth, crank or crystal in power form, and ice
in its translucent crystal form.

Earlier this summer a male crystal meth addict was arrested for a series of
break-ins, and other addicts are known to local RCMP.

"It is feared that if use of this drug continues, it may lead to a rise in
property crimes," says Cst. Lea Turner with the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP
detachment.

"What is worse is that this drug is also connected to extreme violence
because with high doses the user develops a psychosis, similar to paranoid
schizophrenia and becomes very aggressive," he adds.

So far, there have been no serious assaults in our area connected with use
of this drug.

Police are working with parents, youths, schools and other partners to
address the problem, Turner says.

An information meeting for parents will be held some time later this fall,
he adds. Meanwhile, anyone with information about the use of this drug is
encouraged to call RCMP at 992-6100, or Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477.