D.A.R.E. HELPS IN PREVENTION OF CRIME

I am writing in response to David M. Schmidt's letter, published on June
10, criticizing our D.A.R.E. program.

D.A.R.E. is an important part of our crime prevention efforts at the
sheriff's office. Contrary to Mr. Schmidt's opinion, I believe that crime
prevention is cost-effective. Illicit drugs take a tremendous toll on the
health and well being of people that abuse them, especially our youth. The
cost in health care and counseling services alone justify our efforts, but
that is not all. Crimes committed by persons supporting their drug habits
result in significant property losses due to theft and fraud in our county.
Using ill-gotten gains seized from drug dealers is clearly to combat and
prevent drug abuse.

The recent purchase of a truck for use by the D.A.R.E. officer was made
possible with the help of Greenville Toyota and by using funds from assets
seized by our very successful narcotics enforcement unit. The D.A.R.E.
truck is a necessary tool for us to take the program to schoolchildren
throughout Pitt County.

Mr. Schmidt's letter offers criticism, with no suggestions on how we might
better combat the drug problem. This sheriff's office is open to innovation
and is committed to stopping drug abuse and drug dealers.

MAC E. MANNING, JR.

Sheriff, Pitt County