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Drug-Related Deaths Drop In SoCal 'Meth Capital Of The World'

SAN DIEGO (CBS) — The use of crystal methamphetamine has slowed significantly in San Diego County, according to a survey released Thursday.

KNX 1070's Tom Reopelle reports a new report from the Methamphetamine Strike Force shows that over the last five years, law enforcement has made some big gains.

The study shows the number of meth-related deaths were down 43 percent, while the number of arrests declined by over half.

County supervisor Diane Jacob credits one specific program with helping make a dent in the meth community.

"One of the programs that we've supported is the "Drug Endangered Children" program," said Jacob. "This is a program that rescues kids from meth homes and then reunites them once their parents get clean and sober."

County officials have also set up a hotline allowing residents to report meth crimes.

(©2010 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

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