Officials Searching To Squelch Meth Usage In Central Illinois

Tools

By Maggie Vespa

Story Published: Jul 1, 2009 at 8:38 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jul 1, 2009 at 10:13 PM CDT

While budget woes seem to have taken center stage in Springfield, one local lawmaker says the state must begin looking ahead, starting with a crackdown on the local drug scene.

State Representative Mike Smith (Canton, D) led a meeting Wednesday night in Pekin to discuss steps the Illinois can take in suppressing meth usage.

The Meth Issues Advisory Committee contained police and fire officials from throughout Central Illinois. The group agreed meth usage is a problem typical of rural areas, and say while things have gotten better, they're not guaranteed to stay that way.

"Statistically, Pekin basically eradicated the problem several years ago, but it is a reoccurring problem. Those who have been prosecuted, tried and imprisoned are being released, and resorting back to their old habits. They find ways around the law," said Smith.

The committee discussed many possible solutions, one being a statewide pharmacy database that would monitor purchases of prescription drugs used in meth production.

Saturday, Jul 4 at 10:35 PM Pekin wrote ...

Pekin is the key source of meth. Shut them down and problem will be significantly better

Thursday, Jul 2 at 11:12 AM Juan wrote ...

Good job Mike, thank you for bring this to the fore-front. The problem is not solved and law enforcement should spend more time busting drug dealers than stopping people for driving 5 mph over the speed limit or not wearing a seat belt. Drug users are a greater hazard and create a huge issue for society. Lets focus on busting them and taking all of their money placing it in the State coffers. As millions of dollars are involved in crime in Illinois, this should help to reduce the debt.

Thursday, Jul 2 at 9:36 AM yea right wrote ...

Good luck with that!!!!!!!!

Wednesday, Jul 1 at 9:46 PM FrustratedInPekin wrote ...

A deterrant to repeat meth dealers: public hangings. Problem quickly solved!

Add a comment

Name:

Comment: 1000 Characters Left

WEEK News 25 - and its affiliated companies are not responsible for the content of comments posted or for anything arising out of use of the above comments or other interaction among the users. We reserve the right to screen, refuse to post, remove or edit user-generated content at any time and for any or no reason in our absolute and sole discretion without prior notice, although we have no duty to do so or to monitor any Public Forum.

More Good Stuff

Advertisement
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Stock Quotes

What's On TonightFull Schedule

Local Business Dir