METH SHOULD NOT BE SENSATIONALIZED

"42 percent of users get addicted after one shot, and 96 percent are hooked
after a second try."

Sergeant Scott BECK Detachment Commander Mayerthorpe RCMP

Mayerthorpe Freelancer - It was with amazement that I read the recent
article in the Mayerthorpe Freelancer by Rosemary AUSTEN, "Meth Problem
Hits Local Teens".

What was most disturbing to me was that the tone of the article seemed to
sensationalize this devastating drug.

In my opinion, casually commenting on how to use it, the euphoric high, and
weight loss effects are more than irresponsible, especially when read by
impressionable youth. What's next a recipe on how to produce crystal meth,
or where to purchase it?

Where is the discussion on the devastating effects of this drug? Where is
the information on the broken families, the highly addictiveness, the
criminal behaviour to support this habit that at times can effect everyone,
and the dangerous physical, mental and potentially lethal results of
Methamphetamine use?

Here is a quote from the Edmonton Journal relating to a 16 year old addict,
"as the weekend parties creep closer again the 16 year old vows to stay
away from the drug that has nearly destroyed her, the monster that has
given her nosebleeds, made her lungs ache, coated her eyes with yellow
slime, eaten away at her memory, dropped her weight by 20 pounds, caused
her to pick at her face and arms until they bleed, and pushed her into the
shower countless times to scrub away the biting burning chemical smell, she
hates it, but she wants it."

Does this sound cool? Does this sound like something that should be taken
lightly?

This is a devastating drug. It is made from toxic chemicals , everything
from camping fuel to brake fluid, paint thinner and iodine. It causes brain
damage, kidney problems, paranoia and violent behaviour.

42 percent of users get addicted after one shot, and 96 percent are hooked
after a second try. Would you care to take your chances with these percentages?

I also take issue with the line quoted as, "the local RCMP were largely
unavailable for comment on the issue, but did say Meth use is a problem in
the entire region."

As the local Detachment Commander I can advise that I was never consulted
or aware of this article until I read it in the Freelancer.

On behalf of the detachment I would be more than glad to offer the RCMP
perspective on this issue, however, I have never been approached by anyone
at the Freelancer on this matter. I am very disappointed that this article
was printed in the manner it was.

This is an extremely important issue that demands all the appropriate
information be provided to our community. We owe it to our youth and
community to do this in a cooperative and professional manner.

The RCMP and Mayerthorpe Detachment remain committed to this issue.

Sergeant Scott BECK,

Detachment Commander Mayerthorpe RCMP