METH IS A LARGE PART OF COUNTY'S SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROBLEM

The arrest of nine people suspected of running a methamphetamine lab near
Lime Kiln Road is certain to be supported strongly by the community.

Whether those arrested are guilty - the courts have yet to decide, and it's
important to remember that the suspects are innocent until proven otherwise
- - western Nevada County wants a strong stand to be taken against
methamphetamine.

When United Way of Nevada County asked the views of county residents about
social issues, a full 92 percent - 92 percent! - said drug and alcohol
abuse is a very significant or somewhat significant problem for the community.

Meth is a big part of that problem. The most recent statistics show that
about a third of the people who enter drug and alcohol programs in Nevada
County seek treatment for meth addiction. Often, the number seeking help
for meth addiction is almost as great as the number seeking help in
battling alcoholism.

Even the large number of western Nevada County residents who grew up in a
time when casual drug use was widespread recognize that methamphetamine is
something different. It's addictive, with a great power to wreck lives.

The community and law enforcement officials share the belief that the most
effective attack on methamphetamines will target manufacturing and large
distribution operations. Sheriff's officers say the lab they busted on
Vintage Road just before Christmas was small , mostly producing the drug
for personal use and a little for sale. Nevertheless, the bust is a step in
the right direction.

Slowly but surely, the number of meth-related search warrants and arrests
handled by the sheriff's department has risen. Sheriff Keith Royal says the
strength of the attack on meth reflects an increased willingness in the
community to provide officers with the information they need to target
meth-manufacturing operations.

Clearly, information and personal involvement by those who want to banish
methamphetamine from the community is just as important as continued
dedication by law enforcement officers. Both are needed to accompany the
clear statement by the community that it views this a problem that needs to
be solved.

Let this be the year we draw this line in the sand.