DEA Assessment:

Methamphetamine is a widely abused drug in Washington and one which impacts all levels of the community. Methamphetamine in powder form (methamphetamine HCl) and a more potent form known as “ice” (crystal methamphetamine) are readily available throughout the state. Crystal methamphetamine now dominates the market in Washington as the preferred form of methamphetamine.

Mexican drug trafficking organizations are primarily responsible for the importation and distribution of methamphetamine, most of which is now produced in Mexico. Small, toxic labs within the state have decreased over the years but are still encountered. (1)

Drug Offenses:

In 2006 there were 165 meth-related arrests; 36.7% of all drug cases in WA. (1)

There was 91.3 kg of methamphetamine seized in 2010. (2)

Lab Incidents:

There were 31 lab incidents in 2010. (3)

There were 2 children endangered by meth labs in 2010. (4)

Treatment Admissions for Methamphetamine Abuse: (5)

4,704 treatment admissions for methamphetamine/amphetamine abuse in 2010;

12.4% of all drug abuse treatment admissions.

For additional percentages giving the breakdown of age at admission, race, ethnicity, and sex please Click Here

Legislation:

Has PSE Tracking Law (6)

1. ONDCP: State of Washington: Profile of Drug Indicators. http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/statelocal/wa/wa.pdf
2. National Meth Center; State Resources. Available: http://www.nationalmethcenter.org/STATES.html
3. Total of All Meth Clandestine Laboratory Incidents Including Labs, Dumpsite, Chem/Glass/Equipment. Available: http://www.justice.gov/dea/concern/meth_lab_maps/2010.jpg
4. MethResources.gov; State Resources. Available:   http://www.methresources.gov/Index.html
5. Treatment Admissions Data. Available: http://wwwdasis.samhsa.gov/webt/tedsweb/tab_year.choose_year_web_table?t_state=WA
6. PSE Tracking Law. Available: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/meth/map-meth-by-state/