METH LAW GETS MORE TEETH

Governor Mike Easley signed a new proposal on Aug. 3 to toughen
penalties against N.C. methamphetamine manufacturers.

The proposal, co-sponsored by N.C. Senator Joe Sam Queen, will crack
down not only on manufacturers, but also on those possessing the
ingredients to make the drug and those who inadvertently injure law
enforcement officials in the case of explosions or meth lab fires.
Punishments will now be more severe for those who make meth when a
child is present. Twenty-five percent of N.C. homes containing meth
labs were found to have children residing in them during 2003. The new
bill also adds meth to the list of illegal drugs like opium and
cocaine where, if overdosed on, the provider may be charged with
second-degree murder.

Increased prison time is now an option on nearly all counts.

Specifically, the new proposal gives the option of a maximum prison
sentence of 2 to 17 and 1/2 years for manufacturers. First-time
fenders may now receive four months in prison or community service.

Additionally, those who possess precursor chemicals with the intent to
manufacture could face up to four years in prison. As it stands,
possession of precursor chemicals requires only four months in prison
or community service.

The new proposal was greeted with optimism by Mitchell County Sheriff
Ken Fox.

"This new proposal sounds very thorough, and it should be effective in
helping us to fight this continuing problem," Fox said. "Now, maybe
those who manufacture will think twice before they start."

While Fox was glad to see some new legislation on fighting
methamphetamines, he said there are still other options to prevent
more widespread use.

"The new laws are great, but I still wish they could restrict the use
of ephedrin and get it behind the counter at some of these stores
manufactures go to purchase it," he said. Ephedrin, one of the common
ingredients in meth, is sold over-the-counter and widely available at
grocery and drug stores.