Rising numbers of meth users
worry local law enforcement
Methamphetamine, a synthetic drug commonly referred to as meth, poses an increasing threat to Virginians. According to federal statistics, availability and abuse of the drug has nearly doubled in the Shenandoah Valley since 2002.
Data indicate that the amount of methamphetamine seized by federal law enforcement officers in the region increased from 25.5 kilograms in 2002 to 43.7 kilograms in 2006.
“Meth is our biggest problem here in Rockbridge County, and it has been for some time," said Rockbridge Regional Jail Superintendent John M. Higgins.
The Virginia State Police reported 470 people were arrested in 2003 on meth charges. The number of arrests climbed to 567 in 2006.
Higgins said people use drugs for a variety of reasons, often making their decisions based on what drugs are available, what they cost, what's familiar, what's fashionable, and what feels good. The Drug Enforcement Administration said at least part of the reason meth has stayed in the Shenandoah Valley is its relation to class and culture.
"It's called the poor man's cocaine," Laura DiCesare, spokeswoman for the DEA's Washington office, told The Washington Post."Meth had a bad rap because bikers used it, and truckers used it to keep awake."
The stereotype, however, may be changing. According to the National Drug Intelligence Center, a new description of meth users "includes white-collar professionals, business owners and some members of the lower class."
Jail superintendent Higgins said the national profile is reflected locally.
“We've found all types of people use meth," he said.
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