POLICE UPDATE PARENTS ON CRYSTAL METH FIGHT

"I need to learn just as much as I can about crystal meth."

Roddy and Karen Batson summed up the feeling of a small crowd of
parents, social workers and Brandon residents who turned out to the
second community forum on crystal methamphetamine and other drugs at
the Crocus Plains Regional Secondary School last night.

"The magnitude of this drug is enormous," Roddy said. "It's addictive
even from using it just one time."

The Batsons have three children, one of whom is a senior at Crocus
Plains.

While they trust their kids know enough to say no to crystal meth and
any other drug, Roddy believes the best way to combat the problem is
through education for both students and parents.

"Kids have to learn that one try is dangerous. It's not a joy ride,"
Roddy said.

In December, more than 300 people packed into the cafeteria at Crocus
Plains to hear all about crystal meth -- how it's made, how prevalent
it is, and what can be done to stop it from spreading.

While that meeting was meant to create action within the community,
last night's forum was held to update recent events, and provide
further information on what parents can do to stop the spread.

Crystal meth has been found in Brandon high schools twice since Nov.
23.

Insp. Ian Grant from the Brandon Police Service spoke at length
regarding the various kinds of drugs police have seized in the city in
the last five years.

While the main drugs of choice among users in Brandon continue to be
marijuana and cocaine, there have been small amounts of crystal meth
found in Brandon.

"Over the years there hasn't been much," Grant said. "But we're not
naive in thinking it's not there, and that people aren't using it."

The $771,303 worth of all manner of drugs seized in the last five
years -- from marijuana and LSD to magic mushrooms and crystal meth --
represents just the tip of the iceberg he said.

"We're just scratching the surface of the drug trade in Brandon, or
any community."