BRACING FOR METH MAYHEM

Cheap Alternative To Cocaine: Cops

Ephedrine is commonly found in over-the-counter cold medications --
but is also a well-known precursor to methamphetamine. Methamphetamine
- -- also known as meth, crystal, speed, glass, ice and peanut butter --
is referred to as a cheap alternative to cocaine. For a $20 "point" of
meth, you get a high that lasts all day, police say.

Canadian law enforcement agencies, including the Winnipeg Police
Service, have been bracing for an explosion in the use of the illegal
and highly addictive stimulant for some time.

Use of the drug has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. Police on
both sides of the border say it's a matter of time before meth madness
sweeps Canada.

As the demand grows, so will the supply. That means police can expect
to uncover plenty of clandestine drug labs in coming years.

The situation in North Dakota as a disturbing harbinger of what
Manitoba might expect.

In 1996, police in North Dakota busted about three meth labs, Stewart
said. In 2002, they uncovered 98.