MORE DRUG TREATMENT NEEDED TO HELP SOLVE LOCAL CRIME PROBLEMS

The crime problem in Savannah is much like the weather: It gets talked
about a lot. The drug problem in Savannah also gets talked about a lot, but
drug treatment in Savannah and Chatham County gets talked about very little.

What also doesn't get talked about is the direct correlation between the
lack of treatment facilities for drug abuse problems and the increase in
crime of all types.

With a decrease in state funding and the Chatham County Commission
disclaiming any responsibility for substance abuse and mental health
problems by cutting off funding to agencies that provide treatment
services, the crime problem will only get worse.

A short time ago, the city implemented a mixed-drink tax that could have
been earmarked for substance abuse problems. That tax could be implemented
county-wide and earmarked for treatment programs.

Our nation has squandered tens of billions of dollars on the war on drugs
by just putting people in jail. We haven't spent 10 percent of all those
funds on prevention, early intervention and treatment.

I read in the paper and see on television about meetings on the lack of
more policemen on the street. I hear no demand for dealing with the root
cause of crime.

A policeman on every corner will not solve the crime problem, nor will it
solve the drug problem. As long as there is a demand for drugs people will
get them.

Does that mean we don't need more police? No. It means that we need both.
It is a proven fact that the criminal justice system can prove a strong
incentive for a person to seek treatment. One example is Superior Court
Judge James Bass Jr.'s drug court.

The crime meetings I hear about are filled with people blaming someone else
for the crime problem. I suggest we take a look in the mirror. We get the
kind of community we vote for.

We have elections coming up for Savannah mayor and aldermen and Chatham
County Commission chairman. Maybe someone will step up who can think
outside the box.

RUSSELL BILLINGS, Savannah