This is something quite alarming since one of the drugs being seen more is methamphetamine (meth), a strong and highly addictive drug that affects the central nervous system. Law Enforcement officials are cognizant of the dangers and strongly urge anyone that is using such narcotics to please stop.

A few years ago a heavier drug movement was noticed in our region, which coincided with increased oil production activity in our region.

Ever since then, certain drugs normally not seen in our area started to pop up.

The most noticeable fact to support the illicit change were the type of drugs being seen on individuals being arrested for narcotics possession.

The times have changed and the reality is that the drugs of choice now more prevalent in our region are truly more dangerous.

Maverick County Sheriff Tom Schmerber states that an increase in controlled substance arrests have been going on for several years.

Schmerber says that this is not good because of the highly addictive nature that these narcotics subject the user to.

Studies also show that heavier drug use increases other crimes in the area where the drug activity is occurring.

Sheriff Schmerber added that his department is working with other law enforcement agencies to address the growing problem.

Law Enforcement officials within the city government state that they see that a majority of those drug arrests are occurring outside city limits.