Attacking the Supply and Demand
Goal | Methods | Benefits | Results

GOAL:

Reduce the supply of and demand for methamphetamine in Georgia through a partnership between retailers, law enforcement, and the community.

METHODS:

Raise Public Awareness: Signage (on doors, product shelves, and cash registers) and information sheets promote a website and hotline that educate the public about the dangers of meth and how to help combat it. Website: www.gameth.com HelpLine: 1-800-338-6745 (the state’s toll-free hotline for information and referrals concerning substance abuse treatment and prevention)

Deter Meth Cooks: Store employees are on the lookout for meth cooks and report suspicious activity, while meth cooks know they are being watched. Employee training – Sales clerks and other workers learn to identify meth ingredients, signs of meth cooks/users, and suspicious activity Suspicious transaction reporting – Sales clerks provide information to law enforcement to investigate potential meth labs Product management – Strategic placement of meth ingredients in stores to minimize theft

BENEFITS:

To the Community: Less crime, addiction, child abuse/neglect, lost worker productivity, health care costs, toxic waste harmful to the environment

To Retail Stores: Safer stores, less product theft, better relations with customers, better relations with law enforcement

RESULTS: Meth Watch programs are now operating in 9 other states. Officials report heightened public awareness and reductions in meth labs, such as in Spokane Co., Wash., which began its program in 2001.