In the meantime, production of the drug continues to move toward Central and Eastern Kentucky. Dave Gilbert, deputy director for the Kentucky section of the three-state Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area based in London, said the number of meth labs in the eastern part of the state was up last year. State police in Hazard found the first meth labs in the post area within the last few months, said Capt. Gilbert said local police have reported an increase in shoplifting tied to meth, as people steal ingredients. Some retailers have moved to limit purchases of some items, and have moved the products where employees and surveillance cameras can keep a better eye on them.
Retailers also call police about attempts to buy large amounts of products needed to make meth.
Methamphetamine causes an intense high and a sense of increased energy, according to the DEA, but also frequently results in violent behavior. Chronic abuse reportedly causes paranoia, hallucinations and health problems ranging from tooth loss and skin sores to serious kidney, lung and brain damage. Making it also poses hazards. There have been cases of injuries to meth cookers in Western Kentucky, and also to police exposed to the chemicals, Albro said. Meth also causes environmental problems.