METH USE IS BECOMING PROBLEM

It's no secret that "meth" is an increasing problem in our area. During
2003, the Cleveland Police Department made 23 meth-related arrests. We have
already made 15 meth-related arrests this year.

We've used this column to describe the ingredients meth cooks use and what
to look for if you suspect a meth lab near you. I thought it would be
beneficial to describe the physical effects of meth, which may help you
identify a loved one's use of the drug.

Meth stimulates the central nervous system and the effects may last
anywhere from eight to 24 hours. It is a powerful "upper" that produces
alertness, and elation, along with a variety of adverse reactions. After
the effects of methamephetamine wears off, it can cause severe withdrawal
that is more intense and longer lasting than both speed and cocaine. After
the initial "rush" there is typically a state of high agitation that in
some individuals can lead to violent behavior.

Short-term effects include increased alertness, sense of well-being,
paranoia, intense high, hallucinations, aggressive or violent behavior,
insomnia, impaired speech, dry or itchy skin, premature aging, rotting
teeth, loss of appetite, acne or sores and numbness. Meth use also causes
disturbed sleep, excessive talking, panic, moodiness, irritability and a
false sense of confidence and power.

Long-term effects include fatal kidney and lung disorders, possible brain
damage, depression, hallucinations, weight loss, behavior resembling
paranoid schizophrenia, lowered resistance to illnesses, liver damage,
stroke and death.

The effects are not only long lasting, but continue to cause damage to the
user long after use has stopped. A person who stops using the drug gains
the benefit of a longer, healthier life and greater enjoyment of everyday
activities. These benefits greatly outweigh an addiction to meth.

Traffic Accident Prevention Team

The TAP Team will be concentrating on the areas of Keith Street and
Georgetown Road due to the high number of traffic crashes that have been
occurring there recently.

Radar enforcement

The speed limit has been reduced to 35 MPH and the traffic flow has been
reduced to one lane in the construction area on South Lee Highway. We will
be working radar in that area.

Construction Zones

Bridge replacement construction has begun on South Lee Highway near the
Cleveland speedway.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Luther Westfield, who is being promoted to lieutenant
effective March 1. Westfield holds two associate degrees form Cleveland
State Community College and is a 26-year veteran of the Cleveland Police
Department.

Tips, trends and survey

Observe a ambos lados antes de cruzar la calle.

Look both ways before crossing the street.

Chief's Crime line: 728-INFO (4636)

Litter hot line: 559-3307 (Cigarette butts are litter!)

Traffic hot line: 559-3388

Animal Control: 479-2122

Bullying hot line: 473-1046

WES SNYDER JR. Cleveland Police Chief