Sault Ste. Marie police are taking a new approach to the crackdown on the production of crystal methamphetamine in the city.
In partnership with the local Drug Strategy Committee and Crime Stoppers, the police have launched the Meth Watch Program.
The drug, also known as meth, crystal meth, ice, crank, or speed, is a highly addictive synthetic chemical that can cause various life threatening health conditions such as stroke, dangerously high body temperatures, and an irregular heartbeat.
Crystal meth is man-made and can be produced with common household products that are available at many retail stores:
- Over the counter cough/cold and allergy medicines containing ephedrine,
- Acetone,
- Rubbing alcohol,
- Iodine,
- Starter fluid (ether),
- Drain cleaner,
- Lithium batteries,
- Paint thinner; and,
- Aluminum foil
The new Meth Watch Program is designed to encourage cooperation between retailers, members of the public, and law enforcement, with the intent to raise awareness and educate the community about what to look for and how to report any suspicious activity or purchases to police.
Purchases of large quantities of the listed items above could be considered suspicious.
“The Meth Watch program is part of a comprehensive response to address the production of crystal methamphetamine. It gives everyone in our community proven and powerful tools to help mitigate the risks associated with production. We are happy to work with our community and partners to help reduce the harm caused by substance use in our community.” said Allison McFarlane, the co-chair of the Sault Ste. Marie and Area Drug Strategy.
For more information on the Meth Watch Program or the Sault Ste. Marie and Area Drug Strategy please contact Allison McFarlane or Desiree Beck at dbeck2018@outlook.com or amcfarlane@algomapublichealth.com.
To report suspicious activity, contact Sault Ste. Marie Police Service at 705-949-6300 or info@ssmps.org, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 705-942-7867 or 1-800-222-8477 or www.p3tips.com.
