HELP COMBAT ILLEGAL DRUG SALES

Re: "Cocaine seized in Pine Island raid," Aug. 5. I would like to
thank Sheriff Mike Scott, Captain Dominick Ferrante and all of the
members of the Lee County Sheriff Department for a job well done!

Their determination and attention to a serious drug problem in Lee
County has eliminated one source of dangerous drugs in our community.

I hope that this is just one of many such drug busts and sends a
message to those who choose to endanger the lives of others, that
this will not stand.

Anyone who chooses to sell, whether it be cocaine, marijuana or
prescription medication is choosing to play Russian Roulette with
another person's life to benefit themselves.

They will sell to anyone, including children and young adults. They
do not discriminate.

According to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration) in 2004, 1.3 million emergency room visits were drug related.

These are the lucky ones.

The number of deaths each year in this country caused by over-dose is
staggering.

These are not just statistics. These are mothers, fathers, sons,
daughters and siblings.

Please, if you know of someone who is supplying drugs whether it be a
neighbor, an acquaintance or even a relative, contact law enforcement.

You can remain anonymous. If you think this situation does not affect
you, think again.

Many crimes in our communities are drug related. Please support our
Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies in their efforts.

SAMHSA provides a directory of substance abuse treatment facilities
and can be reached at 800-729-6686 or on-line http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov.

Patricia Waite

Bokeelia