IT'S TIME TO ADDRESS DRUG PROBLEM IN COUNTY

The News Journal headlines of March 29 led with "Drug charges
possible after TV Program" and upon further reading I was horrified
to find that Shelby Police filed charges against the Oprah network
because they actually showed the truth about drug addiction in
America. It was real reporting, not the news we have been spoon fed
by other media. It wasn't pretty, but it was real. Death and
dependency are ugly, but the final result of a life of chemical dependency.

After a Lisa Ling expose on drug and heroin problem in the greater
Richland Count area, Shelby Police are more concerned about their
image than dealing with the awful truth about our drug problem, as
you quoted "You pick (ed) on an area like Richland County, and it
makes us look like we're the worst there is in the country, Simply not true."

What a statement, in other words it's OK to have a drug problem; we
just don't want to be the worst in the country. Shelby Police
Department, stop worrying about your image. We have a very serious
drug problem in Richland County; just ask the County Coroner if you
need corroboration.

Richland county residents, wake up. Parents, go to your schools and
demand they perform random drug tests on their students. Parents, if
you suspect your child is using illegal drugs perform a drug test on
your child. Demand all athletes be tested before and during the
season for drug use. Students, stop this code of silence and allowing
others that you see on drugs to continue without intervention. Tell
your teacher, friends, parents if you know of drug usage. Your
actions may save your friend's life boundaries. Question your kids
and get involved with their peers. Parents, get help if you are
addicted to prescription drugs. Set an example for your child that
does not include drug misuse.

I am not sure about you, but I am "mad as hell and I am not going to
take it anymore."

Robert Cleckner

Mansfield