Posted on: Wednesday, March 19, 2003

EDITORIAL
Hope you've had your fill of crystal meth

Like Salvinia molesta, "ice" (crystal methamphetamine) has thrived in Hawai'i largely because communities have allowed it to.

And in case you're new to the Islands, you should know that some of our grisliest crimes have been committed by delusional ice users.

We expect police to aggressively enforce laws against the use of the easy-to-make crystal methamphetamine.

But if the community isn't on board, then there's only so much police can do.

So we're encouraged to hear about the notable turnout at last week's town hall meeting in Kahalu'u, where families shared personal stories about the ravages of ice.

Resistance isn't easy. It entails reporting drug activity to authorities and imploring ice-addicted friends and relatives to seek help.

This is not a take-it-or-leave-it drug. It requires serious intervention and treatment. Nor does it solely thrive in isolated pockets.

It's all over the Islands, and it's going to take all of us to wipe it out. We hope you're as weary as we are of this wholesale suicide.