Police Chief Matt Burns states that there has been a 7% increase in drug-related crimes since 2015 in the Sioux Falls area.
According to Burns, the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force has been incredibly busy collecting an exorbitant amount of drugs in the area in comparison to last year. The force confiscated approximately 38 pounds of methamphetamine, which is a significantly larger amount than the 10 pounds collected the previous year. Additionally, three pounds of cocaine were obtained, compared to three-quarters of a pound in 2015. Police believe the influx of meth in the area is coming directly from labs in Mexico, and they report that, out of all of the cases involving drug abuse, 85% include meth.
Meth is a drug that has gained popularity in recent years. Similar to the opioid epidemic that is occurring throughout the country, more and more people, such as those living in the Sioux Falls area, are abusing this powerful substance, which is known to produce extreme psychological, emotional, and physical effects on those who abuse it.
Not only are police and other officials within the Sioux Falls area confiscating more drugs now than ever before, but they are also working on handling an increase in crimes that are being committed by those who are abusing meth.
While there have been decreases in specific crimes throughout the area, such as vandalism, larceny, and burglaries, there have been increases in other crimes, specifically regarding stolen vehicles. For example, 255 more vehicles were stolen in 2016 than in 2015. This crime usually occurs because owners have left their cars unlocked or made their keys available, as opposed to individuals simply breaking into the cars. Thankfully, most cars have been able to be recovered because of a lack of chop shops in the area.
What is the Connection between Meth and Increased Rates of Crimes?
It is not uncommon for those who abuse substances such as opioids, cocaine, marijuana, and meth to begin engaging in criminal activities. In fact, it is one of the most common warning signs of substance abuse, as those who are addicted to a substance are so focused on acquiring and using their drug of choice that they will go to great lengths in order to maintain their meth addiction. As a result, those who are in the throes of addiction are more likely to take drastic measures, such as committing crimes, to get more of their drug(s) of choice.
When it comes to meth, specifically, this is a substance that interacts within an individual’s brain in a much different manner than other substances. This drug may cause a person to engage in activities, such as crimes, that he or she would otherwise have no interest in doing when not under the influence. Because of this fact, it makes sense that, with an increase in the number of meth users in a community, comes an increase drug-related crimes.
As rates of meth abuse continue to rise in areas such as Sioux Falls, it is imperative that those individuals in the community are ensuring the safety of their personal belongings, specifically their cars, trucks, and other automobiles. This includes making sure all vehicles are always locked and that keys are not visible or in an area where someone else besides the driver can access them.
Effects of Meth Abuse and Treatment Options
When an individual is abusing meth, he or she is likely to grapple with a number of detrimental effects. According to Narconon, some of the most common effects can include the following:
- Inability to sleep
- Weight loss
- Tooth decay
- Increase in blood pressure
- Increased heartbeat
- Mood disturbances
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Violent or aggressive behavior
Narconon also states that one of the most prominent effects of meth abuse includes the individual going to great lengths to obtain this substance. As a result, a person may place all work, personal, and social responsibilities to the side in favor of meth abuse. In doing so, an individual may come to neglect his or her children, lose his or her job, or experience financial upheaval as a result of meth abuse.
While many people who are addicted to meth might find it difficult to reach out and accept help, there is treatment available. At Keystone Treatment Center, we provide the necessary support, resources, and services individuals need to leave the abuse of meth in the past once and for all.
