Methamphetamine use is on the rise in Michigan.
Prosecutors say imported “crystal” meth from Mexico is now replacing homemade meth labs. A report from Michigan State Police says homemade meth labs are in decline.
Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Bob Cooney says that’s because recent laws governing the purchase of meth ingredients – like pseudoephedrine – have made it harder to get meth ingredients.
But even as homemade meth declines, cheap and potent “crystal” meth – or “ice” – is flooding into Michigan from Mexico.
“The supply of ice seems to be endless,” says Cooney. “Ice is easily smuggled across the border. I guess it comes in a liquid form and is later converted to crystals. And it’s easily shipped through the mail, as well.”
Cooney says “ice” is cheaper and more powerful than the homemade meth that spiked a few years ago.
“Ice is about 90 percent pure, whereas the [home-cooked] ‘one pot’ method produces a product that’s about 20 percent pure,” says Cooney.
Cooney expects the trend will hit Grand Traverse County soon. It’s affecting other counties throughout Michigan. Prosecutors in Wexford and Marquette counties warn of a possible epidemic.
The Michigan State Police says meth arrests are up 20 percent statewide.