Today, Explained The new meth
Dec 10, 2021
Sam Quinones, a seasoned crime reporter and author, delves into the alarming rise of a more dangerous form of methamphetamine across the U.S. He traces its roots from wartime use, highlighting a disturbing evolution in manufacturing that has fueled its spread. Quinones discusses the psychological impacts on users, like the tragic story of a former Marine, and the drug's correlation with social issues such as homelessness. He stresses the urgent need for modern treatment strategies and international cooperation to confront this escalating crisis.
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Meth's History
- Methamphetamine's origins trace back to World War I, used by soldiers in various countries.
- It reemerged in the late 1960s, produced by biker gangs in California, leading to a 'culture of speed'.
Mexican Meth Production
- Mexican traffickers industrialized meth production in the late 1980s, using ephedrine for efficient production.
- This led to the rise of 'super labs' in California and Mexico, significantly increasing meth availability.
The Rise of P2P Meth
- In 2008, Mexico banned ephedrine, forcing traffickers to adopt a new method using P2P.
- This new method utilizes various readily available industrial chemicals, enabling massive production.
