NCJ Number
209382
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 72 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2005 Pages: 34,36,37
Date Published
March 2005
Length
3 pages
Annotation
In profiling a strategy to counter methamphetamine labs in Broken Arrow, OK, this article identifies the risks of meth labs, including their danger to children, and how police and particular businesses are working together to address the problem.
Abstract
The use and manufacture of methamphetamine (meth) has been increasing exponentially in Oklahoma in the last several years, including Broken Arrow. Meth is produced in clandestine labs by using common household chemicals and over-the-counter cold remedies. Fewer then 10 percent of those arrested for manufacturing meth have been trained chemists, which increases the inherent risk of making meth. Source chemicals are corrosive or flammable or both. Vapors from the chemical reactions attack mucous membranes, skin, eyes, and the respiratory tract. Some chemicals will react with water or other chemicals and create fire or an explosion. Children in the homes where labs exist risk toxicological, neurological, respiratory, and skin damage, or other adverse effects of exposure to the chemicals and stimulants. A narcotics officer in the Broken Arrow Police Department initiated a project called Operation Don't Meth Around, with support from the department's leadership. The program has focused on raising awareness of the meth problem and its features with three groups: retailers who unknowingly sell ingredients for the manufacture of meth, patrol officers who must detect signs of meth labs and investigate suspected labs, and residents and business owners. The project has resulted in methamphetamine seizures and the disruption of the distribution chain in and around Broken Arrow. The identification and dismantling of meth labs has increased, and the precursor chemicals are increasingly difficult to obtain.