METH SEEPING INTO CITY

Leduc RCMP arrested a city youth for possession of crystal methamphetamine
April 6.

This is not the first time the dangerous drug has made an appearance in the
community, said Insp. Rick Samotej.

"This really concerns me because we've noticed an increase in possession of
crystal meth. There is zero tolerance here with crystal meth," said Samotej.

"This stuff is extremely addictive and dangerous."

Predominant users of the deadly drug are between the ages of 14 and early
20's, he added.

Police also link any increase in thefts with the use of this and other drugs.

"People get to the point where they can't afford it, which increases the
theft of vehicles, thefts from vehicles, and break and enters."

Samotej urges parents to talk to their children about the dangerous drug
and contact various community agencies for more information.

Crystal meth is easy to manufacture yet uses toxic and flammable chemicals.

A meth lab was found to be the cause of an Edmonton house fire last month
said police.

Samotej pointed out the drug is creeping into smaller communities.

St. Albert RCMP seized a variety of drugs including a small quantity of
crystal meth at a home in that community March 31.

"I can't stress enough the danger and addiction that's involved with this
drug," said Samotej.