Jan. 25, 2000
A new challenge for the methamphetamine problem in Utah.
A campaign will kick off next week that targets meth manufacturers and users.
It's the first time the State Department of Substance Abuse has launched a major anti-drug message, and experts expect it to have a big impact.
Crime Specialist Karen Scullin explains.
Thirty billboards across Utah will soon have a new message that targets meth manufacturers. It's only part of a campaign to fight the growing meth problem in this state. Good timing, say Drug Agents. The meth problem in 1999 showed no signs of improvement.
Over the last few years in Utah, drug agents have tackled about one meth lab a day. Unfortunately, nothing's changed. We still rank third or fourth in the nation for the number of meth labs busted.
In 1998 there were 290, 1999 about 271. And so far this year, we're running pretty much the same. But there is some good news.
Don Mendrala/D.E.A.: THE NUMBER OF PRO ACTIVE LABS IS GOING UP. WE'RE TAKING THE FIGHT TO THE BAD GUYS.
Meaning in the past, meth labs were discovered as a result of an investigation into another problem. Mendrala says they're now getting a lot of tips from the community.
And that's what the State Department of Substance Abuse is banking on as well.
They're getting ready to launch a new campaign to fight meth.
B.J. Van Roosendaal/State Dept. of Substance Abuse: METH IS SUCH A GROWING PROBLEM. IT'S ESPECIALLY A PROBLEM BECAUSE MORE WOMEN THAN MEN ARE USING METH. AND THAT IS THE FIRST TIME THAT'S HAPPENED WITH ANY SUBSTANCE ABUSE THAT WE'VE TRACKED.
Thirty billboards will go up to target meth manufacturers, asking what's cooking in your neighborhood?
A meth hotline will allow citizens to call if they think they have a lab in their neighborhood.
And for anyone needing help or information on meth, public service announcements will also run on radio and television with a separate toll free number anyone can call.
B.J. Van Roosendaal: WE WANT TO REACH THE GENERAL POPULATION OF COURSE. BUT WOMEN ARE OUR SPECIFIC TARGET. WOMEN 18 TO 34.
The campaign kicks off next Wednesday.
The major campaign is a joint effort by several agencies, including Salt Lake City Police and the Utah Council on Crime Prevention.
The initial campaign will run about six weeks, but the toll free help lines are here to stay.
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