By NATALIE GALLENTI-BREKALO
MELTON’S youth is increasingly turning to the highly addictive and harmful drug ice according to Melton Police Inspector Stephen Mutton.
Insp Mutton told Star the use of ice, also known as crystal meth, is becoming more common among the area’s teenage residents due to its affordability and he admitted that this is having a cumulative effect on criminal incidents.
“Ice is the main drug youth are experimenting with, it’s highly affordable and extremely addictive,” he said.
“They often turn to crime to fund their addiction.”
Insp Mutton cautioned youngsters to stay away from the drug saying users can become “aggressive, violent and irrational” and said it is a trigger for family violence.
“People have to understand that if they do this then their life will change and so will their family’s (life).
“Behaviourally, financially and physically – it can affect anyone, even the most normal people.
“The public have to be very educated that this drug can fly under the radar, but users won’t even be able to hold down a job.”
According to the National Drug Strategy Household Survey in 2010, 2.1 per cent of Australians aged over 14 years had used meth/amphetamines in the previous 12 months, with 50.8 per cent admitting to using ice.
Insp Mutton said a large number of crimes committed in the area could be traced back to ice and family violence incidents were often attributed to the use of the drug.
He said the key to stemming the growing trend is education in youngsters and offering users a counselling service before the problem gets too far.
And he warned traffickers that they would face harsh penalties when caught.
“We have a divisional unit uncovering a number of clandestine labs … we’re targeting drug manufacturers and dealers.”
He assured the public that the police force is doing their best to stamp out the problem however it is a hard battle.
“The area is far and wide, but we’re doing our best.”
He encouraged anyone who believes there is suspicious activity going on in their area to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
