Kids And Meth Don't Mix (South Dakota)

Children are the most heart-wrenching victims of methamphetamine manufacturing and abuse. They're often found in the same homes where meth and other illegal substances are being made. But with help from a new law that passed in this year's legislative session, keeping kids in the same home where drugs are produced will soon be considered a crime in South Dakota.

They're homes filled with items used to make meth or other drugs... They're also homes where children live.

"We felt that the current criminal statutes did not address this situation."

Representative Sean O'Brien authored and sponsored the bill. He feels that kids and meth don't mix.... and parents, or caregivers who put the two together should be prosecuted.

O'Brien says, "Meth is a serious problem not only in South Dakota, but throughout the US. We found that there are situations where the department of social services has come across where they have founds parents and guardians, others, who've exposed children to methamphetamime and to houses, or apartments where they know meth is being manufactured, or possessed."

But starting on July first there will be a new law to charge people with neglect. Anyone who uses, makes, or distributes meth, or any other type of drug when children are present could face charges of child abuse and neglect. If they're the parents, they could even have their children taken away.

The rest of the story can be seen at:
http://www.keloland.com/News/NewsDetail5440.cfm?Id=0,46475