Central California grows the vast majority of America’s fresh fruits and vegetables, thanks to its temperate climate and rich soil. It’s also the home of more private-sector job growth than anywhere else in the nation, and the natural beauty of our forests and mountains are second to none. It’s easy to see why central California is the fastest-growing region in the state.
However, central California is also home to some less-proud distinctions. The region is largely believed to be the meth capital of the United States. A recent study of teens in Modesto found that about a quarter of teens report that it would be easy for them to access meth, thanks to its ready availability in the region.
Rapid growth, poverty, and wide open spaces where meth labs can go undetected all contribute to this pattern. In addition, a large population of migrant agricultural workers makes substance trafficking easier for Mexican cartels who control the vast majority of the meth market. Meth trafficking and abuse is the most common contributor to violent crime and property crime in central California, disproportionately impacting Stockton, Modesto, and Sacramento. As such, it’s also one of the biggest contributors to crime in the entire state.
Damage of the Meth Trade
The black market trade for crystal meth in California is taking a toll on our neighborhoods. Attempts to prevent crime and to repair the damages are getting more and more frustrating, and citizens are paying the price.
Additionally, the production and trafficking of meth is hurting the environment. In a valley that depends on its agricultural health, the environment is more than an idealistic crusade; it’s a vital part of our economy. Meth labs use toxic chemicals in the process of production and since they’re unregulated, environmental cleanup efforts are lengthy and expensive, in order to keep toxins from our water supply and agricultural soil.
Perhaps even more importantly, the ready supply of meth is hurting our society because of the heavy toll that addiction and abuse take.
Why Is Meth So Common?
Twice as many patients are admitted into rehabilitation clinics in Central California for meth addiction as any other substance. This is part of a larger pattern that we see throughout the states, wherein rates of meth use and abuse are higher in rural areas than any other drug. It’s commonly believed that this is because the lack of stimulation in a small town drives individuals to sensation-seek, and since meth is often introduced as a party drug, it’s a natural progression.
However, it’s important to remember that addiction to crystal meth affects people in every walk of life. Most people who struggle with the addiction don’t look like the sensationalized image of a meth addict. It can be used by high-achieving students, stressed-out moms, and successful businessmen. In our next post, we’ll take a closer look at the social stigma of meth addiction, and how it affects reality for many people struggling to recover.