| Crystal methamphetamine has rapidly become the illicit drug of choice. However, the use and manufacturing of this drug presents problems unique to communities that other drug abuse has not presented in the past. When law enforcement was just beginning to appreciate this drug's devastating effects on communities and users, the focus of law enforcement was to develop safe procedures to locate and seize meth labs. As law enforcement became sophisticated in the detection, seizure and arrest of these clandestine labs and their operators, what became astoundingly apparent was that the real victims of the crime were the children. | ![]() |
|
It was quickly realized that law enforcement was not equipped to address the special needs of the children found in these homes where the manufacturing of meth was taking place. Law enforcement recognized the larger, more important issue of the children and realized that other agencies should be involved to address the needs of these children, the voiceless and innocent victims of this crime. The desperate plight of these children left behind must be addressed. The abuse and neglect of these children is not marginal but real and significant. Thirty to thirty-five percent of seized meth labs are in homes where children reside. These children are innocent, tragic victims who require special and immediate attention. Through Colorado Drug Endangered Children, Inc. the state of Colorado has been provided with a comprehensive program that will effectively address the needs of these children. From Theresa Spahn |
|

