DEATHS SHOW DANGER OF CRYSTAL METH USAGE

Much as crack cocaine has ravaged lives and families in this community over
the past two decades, crystal methamphetamine is inflicting similar damage.

Coahoma County Coroner Scotty Meredith, under the advice of state Medical
Examiner Dr. Steven Hayne, has blamed the popular recreational drug for no
less than two deaths in recent weeks. Meredith ruled one of the two deaths
a homicide in hopes that law enforcement officials would bring a murder
charge against the unidentified supplier of the deadly dosage. We commend
Meredith's courage and urge Quitman County authorities to vigorously pursue
charges against the culprit. We're also pleased to read of a joint effort,
led by the Cleveland Police Department, to break up a crystal-meth ring
operating in four counties, including Coahoma. More aggressive
investigation and prosecution will send a strong message to would-be meth
users and perhaps spare other families from the tragic losses of recent weeks.