The residents of Hancock County should be congratulated for seeking more than just stepped-up law enforcement to counter increased drug abuse in their communities. Residents of the coastal county are wisely asking for more prevention, treatment and educational programs, rather than just sting operations and jail time, in an effort to stem the growth of drug use.

It is a problem that must be addressed. The number of accidental drug deaths in Maine has risen from 19 in 1997 to 126 in 2002. The total number of annual drug fatalities, including suicides, has quadrupled during the same time. In this time, 10 people died from drug use in Hancock County. While narcotics abuse is on the rise, recent studies indicate that prescription drug abuse is playing a growing role in drug deaths.

Much has been written about the abuse of Oxycontin, a virtually unknown drug a few years ago, and its effects on rural communities. Oxycodone, the official drug name, was the fourth most common drug cited in drug deaths, behind methadone, alcohol and morphine/heroin.

The abuse of prescription medications highlights the fact that law enforcement can only solve part of the drug problem. While stealing Oxycontin or the money to buy it is clearly a crime, abusers of the drug are becoming increasingly clever in obtaining it while evading police detection. Helping addicts stop their drug abuse in such a situation will likely be more successful than simply police raids and jail sentences. That’s why the drug court that area residents like is a good idea. Rather than jail time, drug abusers stay in their community and are closely monitored. If they do not complete the required treatment program, jail time is in the offing.

While jail time and fines may induce some to end their drug habits, much more is needed. Without the educational efforts and treatment programs, the extra policemen and drug court will fail. In addition to working to stem the problem before there are violations of the law, several studies have shown that effective drug treatment saves money long term as health care costs and criminal activity are reduced.

Hancock County’s efforts should be supported and emulated.