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Abstract #163744

Cassie Jane Tastad, Masters of Health Science, Minnesota State University, Mankato, 320 Emerson Ln, Mankato, MN 56001, 507-469-4453, cjTastad@hotmail.com

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and destructive stimulant that has become one of the most widespread illegal drugs in the United States because of its ease to manufacture (Meth Abuse, 2006). “Meth” is a societal problem that is taxing judicial and law enforcement agencies. This researcher will discuss the relationship between the violent and erratic behavior of methamphetamine addicts and the safety of the communities in which the problem is present. Dealing with this epidemic has been extremely difficult for law enforcement agencies. To fight this scourge, many states and counties are sharing law enforcement resources through multi-jurisdictional task forces. These initiatives are enhancing the quality and quantity of staff to better serve areas that are lacking resources to combat the escalating methamphetamine crisis (U.S. Department of Justice, 2005). This researcher has found that the primary tool for fighting methamphetamine addiction and trafficking is a drug court program. Intervention along this line combines intensive drug rehabilitation services with legal requirements for addicts to complete a specified treatment program (U.S. Department of Justice, 2005). The researcher investigated a southern Minnesota drug court treatment program, with a particular focus on women who are addicted to methamphetamine. The initial study was conducted to explore the perception of the impact for the treatment facility. The results of the research are beneficial to law enforcement and judicial systems as they look to create innovative ways for the treatment of methamphetamine addicts and their reoccurring violations.

Learning Objectives:

• Clearly recognize the relationship between violent and erratic behavior of methamphetamine addicts and the safety of communities in which the problem is present
• Describe the significance of drug court for methamphetamine addicts as well as community members.
• Develop a prevention plan for women and men in communities where there is a high prevalence rate of methamphetamine.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.