DRUG USE IS TROUBLING

A story in Friday's Times on the rise in crystal meth use in Langley
and other parts of the region is deeply troubling.

It is troubling for many reasons. First, this manufactured drug can
cause serious harm to users. Second, many of these users are teens who
start using the drug because it's cheap, and quickly become addicted.
Third, the criminals who are its manufacturers are creating enormous
damage because of their desire for money - damage to users, and to
society.

Fourth, the escalation of this drug use has also led to an escalation
in car thefts and property crime. Fifth, the unwitting landlords who
end up with a crystal meth lab in their home may lose the building
entirely.

This drug is a scourge on society, and has no redeeming value
whatsoever.