DRUG RECOVERY, ANYONE?

Marijuana, cocaine, meth, illegal prescription drugs, even heroin.

In case you are harboring any illusion that drug abuse and trafficking in
illegal drugs are problems confined to large metropolitan areas, think
again. A quick look at local court dockets tells the real story. Drugs and
drug abuse are now our problems, too.

A recent Mason County court docket perhaps gives the most graphic
illustration of the extent to which the drug culture has invaded our area.
More than half of the cases listed on the docket involved drugs. But even
that doesn't tell the whole story. Law enforcement and court officials said
many of the cases not readily identifiable as involving drugs are drug related.

The scariest part of the situation is that the problem is by no means
confined to one community or one county. Similar court dockets can be found
almost any week in surrounding counties.

Not only do drug and drug-related cases keep local court dockets bogged
down, those convicted of drug and drug-related crimes keep jail cells full.

The result of fighting drug crimes is an enormous cost to taxpayers, both
financially and in terms of community safety.

While local law enforcement is second to none in its efforts to eradicate
drug use and trafficking and prosecutors and judges also make valiant
efforts, most admit the battle is tempered with frustration as the problem
continues to grow.

A program initiated by Gov. Ernie Fletcher would take aim at the root of
the problem -- those who are addicted to drugs.

Recovery Kentucky would place a recovery center for drug addiction in each
of the commonwealth's six congressional districts. Any community in the
state, including the Buffalo Trace Area is eligible to apply for a center.
It's something community leaders here may want to explore.

Continuing efforts by law enforcement and courts to stop the drug trade on
our streets must, of course, continue. But in a world of supply and demand,
reducing demand by offering ready treatment for the root of the problem
should translate into fewer drugs.

It's a win-win scenario in a situation that, at present, seems unwinnable
by any account.