METH, JUVENILE CRIME TOP POLICE CONCERNS

Oct. 26, 2000 - AURORA - Methamphetamine and juvenile offenders are among
the state's biggest crime problems, according to several local law
enforcement officials.

Officials from Adams and Arapahoe counties said they've seen "meth" replace
other drugs as the biggest problem on the streets. They told the Governor's
Task Force on Violent Crime on Wednesday that they need help fighting the
battle.

"The proliferation of meth is an enormous problem," said Brighton Police
Chief Clint Blackhurst.

"It's replaced crack," added Adams County District Attorney Bob Grant.

The task force met earlier in Grand Junction and Pueblo. There, too, it
heard of problems with the powerful stimulant readily made from household
chemicals. Its popularity is tied to how easily it can be made, authorities
said.

Labs set up in homes, motel rooms or even in cars contain potentially
hazardous chemicals. Cleanup of even a small lab can cost more than
$30,000, said Aurora police Lt. Jim Welton.

State law allows agencies to seek forfeiture of property gained through
meth proceeds - "an incredible tool," said Arapahoe County Sheriff Pat
Sullivan. But prosecuting meth offenders is difficult because the law does
not prohibit the possession of its ingredients, he said.

Officials also said problems with juveniles are taking up more time and
resources than they have available. Grant and others asked the task force
to recommend more funding for childhood intervention and mental-health
programs designed to catch potential criminals before they start.

"I don't know of a more important government job than public safety. That
kind of recognition has to funnel down to state legislators," Grant said.
"This funding is a matter of public safety."