Hotlines now available to report meth activity
Local lawmen are welcoming a new around-the-clock state hotline aimed at cracking down on methamphetamine traffickers.
“We’re behind anything anybody can do to fight the meth problem in Tennessee,” said Sheriff’s Chief Investigator Herb Rowland. “It’s still a real big problem here and in other parts of the state.”
The hotline, which became operational Thursday, will allow persons to leave tips on meth labs and traffickers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Investigators with the TBI will follow up on all tips left on the hotline. The hotline number is 1-877-TNN-METH (1-877-866-6384).
The hotline was set up by the state in response to the meth epidemic with Gov. Phil Bredessen saying the hotline is a sign the state intends to crack down on the growing problem.
According to Rowland, between 80 and 90 meth labs were seized in Warren County in 2003 and work continues this year in finding and seizing illegal labs.
The sheriff’s department also has a tips line at 473-8738 which can be reached 24 hours a day. Rowland said the identities of those leaving tips will be kept confidential just as is the case with the state hotline. Rowland added investigators take tips seriously.
“We really need the public’s help because we can’t do this by ourselves,” Rowland said. “We take all tips seriously, and just because we don’t go running in at that very moment doesn’t mean we’re not working on information. Sometimes it takes time, but you can rest assured we are following up on what information we receive.”