Powder cocaine biggest threat to Washington state

Powder cocaine is the greatest illicit drug threat to Washington state, according to the 2009 Northwest HIDTA Threat Assessment Survey. Use and addictions are widespread throughout the region. Cocaine distribution and use contribute to a litany of other criminal activities. According to law enforcement officials in the state of Washington, powder cocaine contributes most to violent crime, followed in order by heroin and methamphetamine. (Source: Second Quarter NW HIDTA newsletter).

Revised marijuana brochure available

The NW HIDTA marijuana education brochure, Say it Strait! Myth vs. Fact, is now available from the Washington State Alcohol/Drug Clearinghouse. The brochure outlines the myths versus scientifically supported facts around marijuana use, and lists resources for more information.

Emerging trends noted by NW HIDTA

The following items are discussed in the current edition of the NW HIDTA newsletter:

·         Women  are becoming increasingly involved in all aspects of marijuana grow operations.

·         Gang membership in street gangs and outlaw motorcycle gangs in Washington is on the rise.

·         Marijuana growers seem to be tying down plants in their grow operations to avoid detection.

·         Grow operations discovered on the Kalispel and Colville Indian reservations in June were tended by Mexican nationals.