DRUG CULTURE
Emporium residents cite profit motive

Two years ago, Cameron County District Attorney Edwin "Tommy" Tompkins declared a local "war on drugs."

In a press conference he called, he told reporters that his office would work with federal and state drug enforcement agencies, state police and borough police to infiltrate the local drug society, make arrests and demonstrate that "Cameron County law enforcement is serious about taking back the community."

And while last week's arrests (see related story this page) are a step in that direction, they also shed light on a pattern of substance abuse that has residents and community leaders grasping for solutions.

Alcohol and marijuana remain the most commonly abused drugs, officials agree, but another trend is ringing alarm bells: abuse and illicit marketing of prescription drugs.

Emporium Police Chief Rufus Jones said he believes drug abuse in the borough is on par with levels that can be found in other communities, but he also thinks law enforcement has not made it a priority until recently.

"Our recent arrests should send a message that we're taking the drug problem seriously," the chief said. "The public is clearly behind us. Most people don't want that type of activity in their neighborhoods."

There is no shortage of opinions and suggestions among the Emporium populace.

One resident cited the financial incentives for dealing painkillers on the street:

"Prescription drugs are a very big deal to those who get high and those selling them are reaping the profits. Where are they getting them? They are breaking and entering into homes. They know people in their own families who have a use for pain meds and they go and visit and steal them. They also know different people in society that have a use for them and they break in and steal them."

Another resident pointed out that some individuals who receive prescription painkillers will, out of financial necessity, use the bare minimum dosage and sell the excess to raise money for unpaid bills.

The mother of a young person recently charged with selling prescription drugs said the impact of the arrest will be devastating.

"What she is accused of doing is terrible, and if found guilty she will have to pay the penalty for it, and we will pay right along with her," she said. " . . . I know that dealers are a big problem, but I think our town's biggest problem is the users. What are we doing wrong in this town that so many of our children must find comfort and relief in drugs?"

"Our son was one of those arrested," said another parent. "He is not a local 'supplier,' but was willing to find something for a person who called him. He was totally wrong and will pay for what he has allowed himself to be involved in . . . None of us wants this terrible drug problem in our town and I am thankful that they are moving on this issue. Let's trust that they continue on and also deal with the main suppliers and not stop with those using and exchanging between themselves."

One Emporium Borough official said, "Of course we all hope that the people affected by this will get their just punishment, but also the help and support that they need to turn their lives around and get away from the drug life. It affects us all in some way, as a community, and we have to work together to try to reverse the trend that has taken deep root in our county."