SHIFT IN DRUG SOURCE REQUIRES PREPARATION

Oklahoma law officials cautioned early this month that the state probably
will become a prime area for smugglers running crystal methamphetamine for
Mexican drug cartels.

The warning comes on the heels of a reduction in clandestine meth
labs, according to officials. The state enacted in July a restriction
in the sale of medicines used in illegally manufacturing meth, and
authorities say the ban has reduced the number of illegal labs
operating in Oklahoma.

But now comes a new danger -- a more potent form of meth handled by
organized drug dealers.

Congratulations to law officers who gathered to discuss the changing
meth culture and ways to combat the new menace. Many times crime is
one step ahead of law enforcement.

But awareness is half the battle against a drug that is disrupting our
society and destroying people's lives.