Methamphetamine Drug Threat Assessment

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Product No. 2005-Q0317-009 March 2005

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Product No. 2005-Q0317-009 March 2005

Methamphetamine Drug Threat Assessment

National Drug Intelligence Center 319 Washington Street, 5th Floor Johnstown, PA 15901-1622 (814) 532-4601

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National Drug Intelligence Center

Table of Contents

Methamphetamine ...... 1 Introduction and Trends ...... 2 Availability ...... 3 Demand ...... 3 Production ...... 3 Transportation ...... 4 Distribution ...... 4 Availability ...... 5 Demand ...... 8 Predominant User Groups ...... 8 Trends in Use ...... 9 Perceptions of Use ...... 9 Trends in Consequences of Use ...... 10 Production ...... 11 Domestic Production ...... 12 Foreign Production ...... 14 Precursor Chemicals ...... 15 Transportation ...... 16 Routes From Foreign Source Areas ...... 16 Routes From Domestic Source Areas ...... 17 Distribution ...... 17 Primary Market Areas ...... 18 Outlook ...... 20 Sources ...... 21

iii

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Methamphetamine Drug Threat Assessment ding Northeast Northeast

Southeast Midwest Midwest Primary Market Areas Primary Market West West West Southwest Southwest Southeast Phoenix Phoenix Phoenix San Diego San Diego San San Diego Los Angeles Los Angeles Los Angeles Pacific San Francisco San Francisco consumption areas and leading distribution centers for the drug as determined through analysis of public health data and law enforcement reporting. Figure 1. Six regions and Primary Market Areas for methamphetamine. San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Phoenix are lea

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National Drug Intelligence Center March 2005

Methamphetamine Drug Threat Assessment

Methamphetamine

Key Findings • Law enforcement reporting as well as laboratory seizure and arrest data indicates that methamphetamine availability has increased over the past year in the Northeast Region, particularly in rural areas. For example, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) El Paso Intelligence Center (EPIC) National Clandestine Laboratory Seizure System (NCLSS) data show that the number of reported methamphetamine laboratory seizures in the North- east region increased from 94 in 2002 to 143 in 2003. DEA methamphetamine-related arrests also have increased recently in the Northeast Region from 179 in 2002 to 198 in 2003. Law enforcement reporting indicates that the increase in methamphetamine availability in the Northeast Region is due primarily to a significant increase in wholesale distribution by Mexican criminal groups. Nevertheless, methamphetamine availability in the Northeast remains lower than in any other region of the country.

• The availability of ice methamphetamine has increased in the past year because of an increase in ice production and distribution by Mexican criminal groups; however, this form of the drug is not as widely available in the United States as powder methamphetamine.

• Methamphetamine production appears to have increased sharply in Mexico since 2002 because Mexican criminal groups producing the drug in the United States are having greater difficulty obtaining bulk quantities of pseudoephedrine from Canada. However, Mexican criminal groups have greater access to bulk quantities of pseudoephedrine and ephedrine from China for use in Mexico–based laboratories.

• Methamphetamine smuggling from Mexico into the United States via Arizona appears to have increased sharply since 2001. More methamphetamine was seized at or between ports of entry (POEs) in Arizona in 2003 than at or between POEs in California or Texas.

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Introduction and Trends

The threat posed to the United States by the The attendant dangers occasioned by domestic trafficking and abuse of methamphetamine is high methamphetamine production to individuals, prop- and increasing. Methamphetamine availability, erty, and the environment contribute to the overall production, and distribution are increasing nation- threat posed by the drug. Law enforcement person- ally; however, national-level data do not indicate a nel, first responders, clandestine laboratory opera- clear trend—either increasing or decreasing— tors, and those in proximity to laboratories, with respect to rates of methamphetamine use. particularly children, often are injured as a result of Nevertheless, demand for the drug is relatively chemical burns, fires, and explosions at clandestine high. In fact, National Survey on Drug Use and laboratories. In fact, EPIC NCLSS data show that Health (NSDUH) 2003 data indicate that more despite a decrease in the number of reported fires than 1.3 million persons aged 12 or older used and explosions at methamphetamine laboratory sites methamphetamine within the past year in 2003. (from 396 in 2002 to 361 in 2003), the number of According to state and local law enforcement reported law enforcement officers injured when agencies, the threat associated with methamphet- responding to methamphetamine laboratories amine trafficking and abuse has increased sharply increased from 129 to 255 during the same period. since 2002 and now exceeds that of any other The environmental damage caused by improper drug. NDIC National Drug Threat Survey storage and disposal of chemicals and chemical (NDTS) data show that the percentage of state and waste attendant to methamphetamine production is local law enforcement agencies that identified severe, and the cost of soil and structure remediation methamphetamine as the greatest drug threat in at contaminated methamphetamine production sites their areas has increased from 31.0 percent in is significant. For example, the annual expenditure 2002, to 36.2 percent in 2003, and 39.6 percent in for domestic clandestine laboratory (predominantly 2004. NDTS 2004 data further indicate that, for methamphetamine laboratory) remediation by DEA the first time, the percentage of state and local has increased from $2 million in fiscal year (FY) agencies that identified methamphetamine as their 1995, to $12.2 million in FY1999, and $16.2 million greatest drug threat (39.6%) surpassed that of in FY2003. cocaine (35.6%), including crack, and is much Child neglect and abuse are common within higher than marijuana (12.0%), heroin (8.6%), or families whose parents or caregivers produce or MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, use methamphetamine. According to the Depart- also known as ecstasy) (0.6%). ment of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, According to state and local law enforcement children who reside with methamphetamine users agencies, methamphetamine-related criminal are more likely to experience neglect as well as activity has increased concurrently with the rise physical, sexual, and mental abuse. Furthermore, in the overall threat posed by the trafficking and children who are present in homes where meth- abuse of the drug. NDTS data show that the per- amphetamine laboratories also are present often centage of state and local law enforcement agen- sustain injuries, including skin lesions, chemical cies that identified methamphetamine as the drug burns, and respiratory damage, due to drug or that most contributes to violent crime increased chemical exposure. For example, NCLSS 2003 from 31.6 percent in 2003 to 34.2 percent in data show that 66.0 percent (589 of 893) of the 2004. Similarly, the percentage of state and local children reported present at seized methamphet- law enforcement agencies that identified metham- amine laboratory sites subsequently tested posi- phetamine as the drug that most contributes to tive for toxic levels of chemicals in their bodies. property crime increased from 29.8 percent to 32.7 percent during the same period.

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Availability methamphetamine laboratory seizures in the Methamphetamine availability has increased in Northeast Region increased from 94 in 2002 to the Northeast Region over the past year. All five 143 in 2003. DEA Field Divisions (Boston, New York, Newark, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.) and five High Demand Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTAs)— National-level drug prevalence data indicate Appalachia, New England, New York/New Jersey, that rates of past year use for powder metham- Philadelphia/Camden, and Washington/Baltimore— phetamine have fluctuated but decreased overall in the Northeast Region report that methamphet- since 1999; however, the number of treatment amine availability has increased: one of the Field admissions for methamphetamine has increased Divisions (Washington, D.C.) and the Appalachia sharply over the same period. According to Treat- HIDTA describe the increase as significant. Increas- ment Episode Data Set (TEDS) data for 2002, the ing methamphetamine availability in the Northeast number of methamphetamine treatment admis- Region also is indicated by data that show increases sions to publicly funded drug treatment facilities in the number of DEA arrests as well as Organized increased from 58,795 in 1999, to 66,975 in 2000, Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) to 81,799 in 2001, and 104,481 in 2002. investigations and indictments in the region. NDIC Comment: More individuals have inde- According to DEA, the number of arrests for meth- pendently sought treatment for methamphetamine; amphetamine increased from 179 in 2002 to 198 in however, criminal justice referrals account for the 2003. Similarly, the number of methamphetamine- greatest percentage of the increase. In fact, the per- related OCDETF case initiations in the Northeast centage of treatment admissions for methamphet- Region increased from 2 in FY2002 to 12 in amine that were the result of criminal justice FY2003. The proportion of OCDETF indictments referrals now appears to account for most treatment in which methamphetamine was charged increased admissions for methamphetamine (52.6%)—a rate from less than 1.0 percent in FY2002 to 12.0 per- much higher than for cocaine (26.1%) or heroin cent in FY2003. Moreover, NCLSS data show that (13.0%). TEDS data indicate that the proportion of the number of reported methamphetamine labora- treatment admissions for abuse of methamphet- tory seizures in the Northeast Region increased from amine/amphetamine (primarily methamphetamine) 94 in 2002 to 143 in 2003. (See Figure 1 on page iv.) resulting from individuals requesting treatment NDIC Comment: Anecdotal law enforce- increased from 26.8 percent in 1999 to 27.3 percent ment reporting indicates that the increase in in 2000, but has since decreased to 26.0 percent in methamphetamine availability in the Northeast 2001 and 24.0 percent in 2002. Over the same Region is due primarily to a significant increase period, the proportion of treatment admissions for in wholesale distribution by Mexican criminal methamphetamine/amphetamine based on criminal groups. According to DEA, Mexican criminal justice referrals decreased from 45.6 percent in groups are the predominant wholesale distribu- 1999 to 45.0 percent in 2000, but then increased to tors of methamphetamine in the region, and their 47.8 percent in 2001 and 52.6 percent in 2002. presence in the region is increasing, particularly in Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Law Production enforcement reporting also indicates that meth- There are no conclusive estimates regarding amphetamine availability in the Northeast is methamphetamine production in Mexico; however, being augmented significantly by a sharp methamphetamine production appears to have increase in methamphetamine production within increased sharply in Mexico since 2002. Accord- the region, particularly by individuals producing ing to DEA, Mexican criminal groups, particularly small quantities of the drug (usually ounce quan- those based in Colima, Michoacán, Jalisco, and tities per cook) in low capacity laboratories. Nayarit, have increased the number and size of NCLSS data indicate that the number of reported methamphetamine laboratories that they operate in Mexico. Supporting the assertion of increased

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methamphetamine production in Mexico is an overall increase in methamphetamine smuggling increase in the amount of methamphetamine seized from Mexico into the United States than a shift in in Mexico and at land POEs along the Southwest smuggling routes in favor of Arizona POEs rather Border. Data from the International Narcotics Con- than California, New Mexico, or Texas POEs. trol Strategy Report (INCSR) indicate that the EPIC data show that since 2002—the year law amount of methamphetamine reported seized in enforcement reporting indicates that methamphet- Mexico increased from 400 kilograms in 2001, to amine production began to increase significantly 457 kilograms in 2002, and 652 kilograms in 2003. in Mexico—methamphetamine seizures at or Furthermore, 2003 EPIC data show that the between POEs in California and Texas increased amount of methamphetamine seized along the sharply, although not to the extent of the increases Southwest Border increased from 1,130 kilograms in Arizona. From 2002 to 2003 seizures at or in 2002, to 1,733 kilograms in 2003, and 1,168 between POEs in California and Texas increased kilograms through July 2004. from 478 to 593 kilograms and from 305 to 484 NDIC Comment: Mexican criminal groups kilograms, respectively. Methamphetamine sei- appear to be producing greater quantities of meth- zures at or between POEs in New Mexico were amphetamine in Mexico for distribution in the much lower than the other states along the U.S.– United States because they have greater access in Mexico border in 2002 (33.53 kg) and 2003 Mexico to bulk quantities of precursor chemicals, (16.15 kg). particularly ephedrine and pseudoephedrine. Distribution According to law enforcement reporting, Mexican Ice methamphetamine distribution has criminal groups purchase bulk quantities of pseudo- increased significantly since 2001 in many of the ephedrine tablets, often more than 1 ton per ship- largest domestic methamphetamine markets. ment, from sources in China. Law enforcement Anecdotal law enforcement reporting indicates reporting further indicates that many of the laborato- that ice distribution has increased sharply in ries established during the past 2 years in Mexico Honolulu, Houston, Denver, Los Angeles, Phoe- are capable of producing multihundred-pound quan- nix, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, and St. tities of methamphetamine per production cycle. By Louis since 2001. In some methamphetamine comparison, NCLSS data indicate that the largest markets ice is now considered the preferred form reported methamphetamine laboratory seized in the of the drug, supplanting powder methamphet- United States in 2003 was capable of producing 50 amine as the predominant type. For example, pounds per production cycle. DEA and HIDTA reporting indicate that ice Transportation methamphetamine now is the type most often dis- Drug seizure data indicate that methamphet- tributed locally in Phoenix and San Diego, two of amine smuggling from Mexico into the United the Primary Market Areas for methamphetamine. States via the Arizona–Mexico border appears to NDIC Comment: Ice distribution has have increased significantly. The amount of meth- increased in these cities because of a sharp amphetamine seized at or between Arizona POEs increase in ice production and distribution by has increased from 168 kilograms in 2001, to 313 Mexican criminal groups seeking the higher profit kilograms in 2002, and 640 kilograms in 2003. In margins associated with ice distribution. The costs fact, the amount of methamphetamine seized at or associated with ice production are slightly higher between POEs in Arizona in 2003 exceeded sei- than those of powder methamphetamine, and ice zures at or between POEs in California (593 kg), production requires greater knowledge and expe- Texas (484 kg), and New Mexico (16 kg). rience; however, ice methamphetamine often is NDIC Comment: The sharp increase in the sold at prices much higher than those of powder amount of methamphetamine seized at or between methamphetamine (see Table 1 on page 5). POEs in Arizona is more likely an indication of an

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Table 1: National Price Ranges, Methamphetamine, in Dollars, 2003

Pound Ounce Gram

Powder 1,600–45,000 270–5,000 20–300 Ice 6,000–70,000 500–3,100 60–700 Source: Drug Enforcement Administration.

Availability

There are no conclusive estimates as to the Field Divisions, 19 report that ice methamphet- total amount of methamphetamine available in amine is available and that availability is increasing. the United States because of limitations in labora- Similarly, 14 HIDTAs report that ice methamphet- tory and drug seizure data and unsubstantiated or amine is increasing in their areas. DEA and HIDTA unknown laboratory capacity estimates in source reporting further indicates that in Arizona and north- areas. However, in attempting to quantify the ern California as well as in some areas of Atlanta, amount of methamphetamine available in the Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, and Seattle ice meth- United States, the interagency Methamphetamine amphetamine has supplanted powder methamphet- Availability Working Group established an esti- amine as the predominant type available. mated range of 120.2 to 167.4 metric tons of pure The availability of methamphetamine tablets methamphetamine in 2001, the only year for produced in Asia (primarily Burma) appears to be which such data are available. These estimates are very limited; such tablets are available primarily derived from analysis of limited data and, as such, in northern California. According to DEA, indi- have a high degree of uncertainty. viduals of Hmong and Laotian ethnicity in north- Powder methamphetamine is the predominant ern California receive methamphetamine tablets type available in the United States, and law from Burma for personal use and for limited dis- enforcement reporting as well as drug survey data tribution. However, there are no data available to indicates that, nationally, powder methamphet- establish reliable estimates as to the amount of amine availability is increasing. Every HIDTA and Burma-produced methamphetamine tablets avail- 20 of 21 DEA Field Divisions report increasing able in the United States. availability of powder methamphetamine. Accord- NDTS data indicate that methamphetamine ing to DEA and HIDTA reporting, powder meth- availability has increased significantly over the past amphetamine is readily available throughout the 3 years. The percentage of state and local law Pacific, Southwest, and West Regions as well as in enforcement agencies reporting methamphetamine most areas of the Midwest. Law enforcement availability as high or moderate in their areas reporting also indicates that the drug’s availability increased from 58.8 percent in 2002, to 64.6 percent has increased significantly in the Southeast to the in 2003, and 65.0 percent in 2004. In 2004 low point that methamphetamine is now readily avail- methamphetamine availability was reported by 28.7 able in many areas throughout the region. Avail- percent of agencies, and only 4.7 percent reported ability also has increased notably in the Northeast that methamphetamine was not available in their Region, where the drug previously was unavail- areas. Regionally, the highest percentage of agencies able or available only in limited amounts. that reported high or moderate methamphetamine The availability of ice methamphetamine has availability in 2004 was in the Pacific Region increased in the past year, but overall this form of (99.0%), followed by the West (98.5%), Southwest the drug is not as widely available in the United (89.4%), Southeast (78.7%), Midwest (63.5%), and States as powder methamphetamine. Of the 21 DEA Northeast Regions (23.2%).

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The amount of methamphetamine seized annu- methamphetamine-related arrests have increased ally has fluctuated since 2001, but the data may sug- recently in the Northeast Region from 179 in gest an increase in the availability of Mexico- 2002 to 198 in 2003, suggesting an increase in produced methamphetamine. According to Federal- methamphetamine availability in that region, wide Drug Seizure System (FDSS) data, the amount although the number of DEA methamphetamine- of methamphetamine seized by federal agencies related arrests in the Northeast remains much decreased significantly from 4,050 kilograms in lower than in other regions (see Figure 3). 2001 to 2,475 kilograms in 2002, but then increased sharply to 3,845 kilograms in 2003. Of the metham- 1,400 1,271 phetamine seized since 2001, EPIC data show that 1,232 an increasing amount was seized at or between 1,200 1,000

POEs along the Southwest Border, an indication of 811 800 increased smuggling of Mexico-produced metham- 634 phetamine into the United States. For example, 600 349 EPIC data show that the combined amount of meth- 400 198 amphetamine seized at or between POEs in Ari- 200 0 zona, California, New Mexico, and Texas decreased Midwest Northeast Pacific Southeast Southwest West slightly from 1,214 kilograms in 2001 to 1,130 kilograms in 2002, but has since increased sharply to Figure 3. Methamphetamine-related arrests, by 1,733 kilograms in 2003 and 1,168 kilograms region, 2003. through July 2004. Source: Drug Enforcement Administration. DEA data regarding methamphetamine-related arrests show significant decreases overall since National-level drug purity data indicate that 2000; however, the data support anecdotal law average methamphetamine purity has increased enforcement reporting and survey data that indi- sharply since 2001, particularly because of cate methamphetamine availability is increasing in increased availability of high purity ice metham- the Northeast Region. DEA arrests for methamphetamine. According to DEA, the average purity of phetamine-related offenses decreased steadily methamphetamine samples tested increased from from 7,700 in 2000 to 4,595 in 2003 (see Figure 2). 40.0 percent in 2001, to 43.8 percent in 2002, and 57.4 percent in 2003.

9,000 There are no national-level data regarding 7,700 8,000 average prices for powder methamphetamine, and 6,557 7,000 therefore the only available data are not a reliable 5,558 6,000 independent indicator of rising or falling avail- 4,595 5,000 ability of the drug. According to DEA, price 4,000

3,000 ranges for wholesale (pound) and midlevel 2,000 (ounce) quantities of powder methamphetamine 1,000 have expanded since 2001. However, the price 0 2000 2001 2002 2003 range for retail (gram) quantities was the same in both 2001 and 2003, despite a rise in price in Figure 2. Methamphetamine-related arrests, United 2002 (see Table 2 on page 7). States, 2000–2003. As with powder methamphetamine, there are Source: Drug Enforcement Administration. no national price averages for ice methamphetamine. Moreover, DEA price data for ice This decline is due primarily to a shift in DEA (reported as national price ranges) are mixed, strategy to arrest fewer but higher priority tar- indicating neither an increase nor a decrease in gets. Despite the decrease nationally, however, availability (see Table 3 on page 7).

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Table 2: Powder Methamphetamine Prices, in Dollars, 2001–2003

Pound Ounce Gram 2001 3,000-23,000 300-2,200 20-300 2002 6,000-45,000 100-6,000 20-600 2003 1,600-45,000 270-5,000 20-300 Source: Drug Enforcement Administration.

Table 3: Ice Methamphetamine Prices, in Dollars, 2001–2003

Pound Ounce Gram 2001 8,000-13,000 800-14,000 60-600 2002 6,000-73,000 500-3,000 120-500 2003 6,000-70,000 500-3,100 60-700 Source: Drug Enforcement Administration.

Forms of Methamphetamine Powder methamphetamine is the most common form of the drug in the United States. Clandestinely produced powder methamphetamine is crystalline in texture, bitter-tasting, soluble in water, and is produced in several colors including white, pink, red, tan, and brown depending on the production method employed. Powder methamphetamine usually is injected or snorted but also can be ingested orally or smoked. Ice methamphetamine is a highly pure, very addictive form of methamphetamine resembling shards of ice or chunks of rock salt. Produced primarily in Guam, Hawaii, and Mexico, ice is the product of the process of recrystallizing powder methamphetamine in a solvent such as water, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, or acetone to remove impurities. Ice typically is smoked using either a glass pipe, an empty aluminum can, a piece of aluminum foil, or a light bulb. Methamphetamine tablets are produced primarily in Burma and usually contain a combination of powder methamphetamine and caffeine. Methamphetamine tablets found in the United States typically are green or orange-red in color, imprinted with a variety of symbols (most commonly WY or R), and are approximately the size of a pencil eraser. Methamphetamine tablets typically are ingested orally and often are flavored and scented like candy (grape, orange, or vanilla). Tablets also are smoked by placing the tablet on a piece of aluminum foil and passing a heat source underneath the foil until the tablet melts and vapors—which are inhaled—are released. Methamphetamine tablets also can be crushed and snorted or mixed with water and injected.

Types of Methamphetamine l-methamphetamine (levo-methamphetamine) is produced commercially and is the active ingredient in over-the-counter products sold in the United States. It does not have substantial addictive qualities. dl-methamphetamine (dextro-levo-methamphetamine) is clandestinely produced using the P2P method, the preferred methamphetamine production method in the late 1970s and early 1980s (see Methamphetamine Production Methods text box on page 11). Although limited, production and use of dl-methamphetamine, which is less potent than d-methamphetamine, have reemerged. d-methamphetamine (dextro-methamphetamine) is clandestinely produced using ephedrine/ pseudoephedrine reduction methods (see Methamphetamine Production Methods). Highly addictive, d-methamphetamine is the most potent, widely abused form of methamphetamine.

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Demand

National-level rates of use for methamphet- Males are slightly more likely to use metham- amine are lower than those for many illicit drugs phetamine than females; however, at younger primarily because the drug is largely unavailable ages, females appear to use methamphetamine at to significant portions of the population, such as higher rates than males. According to NSDUH those in the Northeast (the most populous region 2003 data, the rate of past year use for metham- in the country) and in large cities such as Chicago, phetamine among males was 0.7 percent com- Detroit, and Miami. According to 2003 NSDUH pared with 0.4 percent for females. But MTF data data, the rate of past year use for methamphet- for 2003 show that rates of past year methamphetamine among persons aged 12 or older (0.6%) amine use were higher among eighth and tenth was lower than that for marijuana (10.6%), grade females than males. Among all other age cocaine (2.5%), and MDMA (0.9%) but higher groups, past year use was higher among males than heroin (0.1%). than females (see Table 4). Drug prevalence data indicate that adolescent Predominant User Groups methamphetamine use appears to be highest National drug prevalence data regarding rates among White and Hispanic adolescents. MTF of use for methamphetamine among various age 2003 ethnicity data—available only for eighth, groups are mixed and do not clearly indicate a tenth, and twelfth graders—show that rates of past predominant age group for methamphetamine year methamphetamine use among White students use. For example, NSDUH 2003 data indicate were 2.7, 4.2, and 3.5 percent for eighth, tenth, that the rates of past year use for methamphet- and twelfth graders, respectively, similar to rates amine were much higher among young adults among Hispanic eighth (3.2%), tenth (4.6%), and aged 18 to 25 (1.6%) than among adolescents twelfth (3.4%) graders. By comparison, rates of aged 12 to 17 (0.7%) or adults 26 or older (0.4%). past year methamphetamine use among Black stu- However, Monitoring the Future (MTF) 2003 dents were 0.8, 0.6, and 1.4 percent for eighth, data indicate that the rates of past year use for tenth, and twelfth graders, respectively. methamphetamine among tenth (3.3%) and twelfth graders (3.2%) are higher than rates Methamphetamine use appears to be higher in among young adults aged 19 to 28 (2.7%) or col- rural areas than in large metropolitan areas. MTF lege students aged 19 to 22 (2.6%). As is typical data for 2003 show that the rate of past year of most illicit drugs, the lowest rates of past year methamphetamine use among students and adults use for methamphetamine (2.5%) were reported in rural areas was higher than rates in large metro- by eighth graders. politan areas (see Table 5 on page 9). Table 4: Percentage of Past Year Use of Methamphetamine, by Gender, 2003

Male Female

Eighth Graders 2.0 3.0 Tenth Graders 3.0 3.7 Twelfth Graders 3.6 2.9 Adults (ages 19-30) 3.3 1.8 Source: Monitoring the Future.

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Table 5: Percentage of Past Year Use of Methamphetamine, by Population Density, 2003

Rural Areas Metropolitan Areas

Eighth Graders 3.4 2.0 Tenth Graders 3.7 2.3 Twelfth Graders 5.3 1.8 Adults (ages 19-30) 3.4 2.5 Source: Monitoring the Future.

Trends in Use 5.0 According to MTF, past year use of metham- 4.5 phetamine among adults fluctuated but declined 4.0 3.5 overall from 1999 to 2003 (see Figure 4). 3.0 NSDUH data are available for 2002 and 2003 2.5 only and cannot be analyzed for longitudinal 2.0 1.5 trends in rates of use; however, according to the 1.0 data, rates of past year use for methamphetamine 0.5 0.0 among adults were unchanged at 0.4 percent in 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 both 2002 and 2003. Eighth Graders Tenth Graders Twelfth Graders Figure 5. Adolescent trends in percentage of past year use of methamphetamine, 1999–2004. 3.5

3.0 Source: Monitoring the Future.

2.5

2.0 Perceptions of Use

1.5 Partnership Attitude Tracking Study (PATS)

1.0 data indicate that most teens perceive great risk in

0.5 using methamphetamine and that the proportion

0.0 of teens perceiving risk associated with metham- 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 College Students (ages 19-22) Adults (ages 19-28) phetamine use has increased overall since 1996 (see Figure 6 on page 10). The percentage of Figure 4. Adult trends in percentage of past year use teens who believe there is great risk in people of methamphetamine, 1999–2003. taking methamphetamine regularly has increased Source: Monitoring the Future. slightly from 77 percent in 1996 to 79 percent in 2003. The percentage of teens who believe there Data regarding methamphetamine use among is great risk in taking methamphetamine once or adolescents also show downward trends overall twice increased from 41 percent in 1996 to 51 since 1999. According to MTF 2004 data, the percent in 2003. most notable trend in past year use was among eighth graders, who have reported a sharp decline Data regarding the perception of risk associated from 1999 to 2004 (see Figure 5). NSDUH data with the use of ice methamphetamine among older show a decrease in past year methamphetamine teens and adults are mixed. While the percentages of use for adolescents aged 12 to 17 from 0.9 per- college students and adults saying there is great risk cent in 2002 to 0.7 percent in 2003. in people trying ice methamphetamine increased

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Trends in Consequences of Use Percentage saying there is "great risk" in people trying methamphetamine once or twice The consequences of methamphetamine use as 60 evidenced by Emergency Department (ED) men- 51 47 47 49 50 44 44 44 41 tions and treatment admissions are trending 40 upward. Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) 30 data show that the estimated number of ED men- 20 tions for methamphetamine fluctuated but 10 increased overall from 15,933 in 1995 to 17,696 in 0 2002 (see Figure 8). TEDS data show that the 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

Teens (grades 6-12) number of methamphetamine-related admissions to publicly funded treatment facilities nearly dou- Percentage of teens saying there is "great risk" in taking methamphetamine regularly bled from 47,683 in 1995 to 81,799 in 2001 and

100 increased again to 104,481 in 2002 (see Figure 9). 90 80 79 79 79 70 77 78 78 78 78

60 20,000 50 17,154 17,696 18,000 40 15,933 14,925 16,000 30 13,505 20 14,000 11,022 10 12,000 11,486 10,447 0 10,000 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 8,000 Teens (Grades 6-12) 6,000

4,000

2,000 Figure 6. Trends in perceived harmfulness of 0 methamphetamine, teens, 1996–2003. 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002

Source: Partnership Attitude Tracking Study. Figure 8. Methamphetamine-related emergency overall from 1992 to 2003, data for twelfth graders department mentions, estimated number, 1995–2002. are less encouraging. The percentage of twelfth Source: Drug Abuse Warning Network. graders perceiving great risk in people trying ice fell

more than 10 percent from 1992 to 2003 120,000 (see Figure 7). 104,481 100,000

81,799 80,000 66,975 Percentage saying there is "great risk" in people trying 53,694 56,517 58,795 60,000 ice methamphetamine once or twice 47,683 70 41,035 40,000 60 20,000 50

40 0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 30

20 Figure 9. Methamphetamine-related admissions to 10 publicly funded treatment facilities, number, 1995– 0 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2002. Twelfth Graders College Students Young Adults (23-26) Adults (27-30) Source: Treatment Episode Data Set. Figure 7. Trends in perceived harmfulness of ice methamphetamine, selected groups, 1992–2003. Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring (ADAM) Source: Partnership Attitude Tracking Study. data for 2003 indicate that the median percentage of adult males testing positive for methamphetamine (4.7%) was fourth behind the percentages

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testing positive for marijuana (44.1%), powder males reporting past year methamphetamine use cocaine (30.1%), and heroin (5.8%). ADAM data was 7.7 percent. also show that the median percentage of adult

Production

Illegal methamphetamine production occurs principal methamphetamine source areas that in countries throughout the world; however, only supply U.S. drug markets. Nevertheless, labora- methamphetamine produced in the United States, tory seizure data suggest expanded domestic Mexico and, to a lesser extent, Southeast Asia is methamphetamine production, while law enforce- available in any significant quantity in the United ment reporting and limited laboratory seizure States. There are no conclusive worldwide meth- data indicate a significant increase in metham- amphetamine production estimates, nor are there phetamine production in Mexico. conclusive production estimates for the three

Methamphetamine Production Methods Ephedrine/Pseudoephedrine Reduction Hydriodic acid/red phosphorus. The principal chemicals are ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, hydriodic acid, and red phosphorus. This method can yield multipound quantities of high quality d-methamphetamine. Iodine/red phosphorus. The principal chemicals are ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, iodine, and red phosphorus. The required hydriodic acid in this variation of the hydriodic acid/red phosphorus method is produced by the reaction of iodine in water with red phosphorus. This method yields high quality d-methamphetamine and typically is used when hydriodic acid supplies are limited. Iodine/hypophosphorous acid. The principal chemicals are ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, iodine, and hypophosphorous acid. The required hydriodic acid in this variation of the hydriodic acid/red phosphorus method is produced by the reaction of iodine in water with hypophosphorous acid. Known as the hypo method, this method results in a high yield of d-methamphetamine and usually is used only when the producer in unable to acquire red phosphorus, although it can be used also when hydriodic acid is in limited supply. The iodine/hypophosphorous acid method is particularly dangerous, often resulting in fires and explosions because of phosphine gas produced during the methamphetamine production process. Birch. The principal chemicals are ephedrine or pseudoephedrine, anhydrous ammonia, and sodium or lithium metal. Also known as the Nazi method, the Birch method typically yields ounce quantities of high quality d-methamphetamine and typically is used by independent producers. Phenyl-2-propanone P2P. The principal chemicals are phenyl-2-propanone, aluminum, methylamine, and mercuric chloride. This method yields lower quality dl-methamphetamine, has been associated with outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMGs), and is commonly referred to as the P2P method.

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Domestic Production produced in their areas decreased from 23.2 per- Domestic methamphetamine production cent in 2003 to 21.5 percent in 2004. A much occurs in clandestine laboratories that range in higher percentage of agencies in the Pacific capacity from a few ounces to 50 pounds per pro- (76.1%), Southwest (75.1%), West (74.3%), and duction cycle. Low capacity laboratories are oper- Southeast Regions (67.1%) report high or moder- ated throughout the United States primarily by ate methamphetamine production in their areas local independent methamphetamine users; the than agencies in the Midwest (46.4%) or North- number of such laboratories appears to be increas- east (9.9%) Regions. ing. Large-scale laboratories that yield bulk quan- NCLSS data also indicate widespread domes- tities of methamphetamine are typically operated tic methamphetamine production. According to by Mexican criminal groups in California. NCLSS, methamphetamine laboratory seizures were reported in 46 states in 2003; more labora- New Mexico Laws Targeting tory seizures were reported in the Midwest Methamphetamine Production Enacted Region (3,038) than in the Southeast (2,847), On July 1, 2004, two New Mexico State laws Southwest (1,874), Pacific (1,460), West (820), or that are intended to reduce methamphet- Northeast Regions (143). NCLSS data further amine production and the exposure of chil- show that there has been a steady increase in the dren to methamphetamine laboratory number of reported laboratory seizures since hazards went into effect. The first, House Bill 1999 (see Figure 10 on page 13) and that reported (HB) 112, allows for a child abuse charge seizures increased in eastern states but decreased against anyone who exposes a child to the in many western states. From 2002 to 2003 the production of a controlled substance or number of reported methamphetamine laboratory allows a child to enter or remain in any build- ing containing chemicals and equipment seizures increased in the Southeast (1,906 to used to produce a controlled substance. 2,847), Midwest (2,540 to 3,038), and Northeast Suspected violators will be charged with a Regions (94 to 143), but declined in the Pacific third-degree felony on the first offense and a (1,738 to 1,460) and West Regions (1,078 to 820). second-degree felony on the second or sub- Reported seizures of high capacity superlabs, sequent offense. If such exposure results in those capable of producing 10 or more pounds of bodily harm or death of the child, the individ- methamphetamine per production cycle, have ual will be charged with a first-degree felony. decreased, likely contributing to the decline in The second law, HB 111, provides the Board of Pharmacy with the authority to add sub- total methamphetamine laboratory seizures in stances to the list of drug precursors and western states. NCLSS data show that reported increases penalties for possession, manu- seizures of superlabs decreased sharply from 246 facture, or transportation of drug precursors in 2001, to 144 in 2002, and 133 in 2003. Despite without a license from a misdemeanor to a declines in reported laboratory seizures in the fourth-degree felony on the first offense. Pacific, most seizures of superlabs still occur in that region, particularly in California. Of the 133 Source: New Mexico State Legislature. reported superlab seizures in 2003, 128 were reported in California. NDTS data indicate expanding methamphetamine production. According to NDTS 2004 Law enforcement reporting and laboratory sei- data, 49.6 percent of state and local law enforce- zure data indicate that most superlabs in California ment agencies nationwide describe the level of are controlled by California- and Mexico-based methamphetamine production in their areas as criminal groups and are located in southern and cen- high or moderate, up slightly from 48.8 percent tral California. According to Los Angeles HIDTA in 2003. At the same time, the percentage of reports, four southern California counties (Los agencies reporting that methamphetamine is not Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino)

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counties (Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced,

12,000 Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Tulare) 10,182 10,000 9,192 accounted for 20.5 percent (175 of 851) of the 8,577 8,000 reported methamphetamine laboratory seizures in 6,777 6,940 6,000 California including 43.0 percent (55 of 128) of

4,000 reported superlab seizures. 2,000 HIDTA reporting indicates that Mexican 0 criminal groups, some based in the Los Angeles 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 area, often travel to rural or remote areas of Figure 10. Methamphetamine laboratory seizures, southern and central California to produce meth- number reported, 1999–2003. amphetamine, subsequently returning to the Los Source: National Clandestine Laboratory Seizure System. Angeles area to distribute the drug. Many of the groups maintain close family and social ties with accounted for 55.8 percent (475 of 851) of the individuals in Culiacán and Michoacán, Mexico, reported methamphetamine laboratory seizures in to recruit laboratory workers who come to Cali- California in 2003 including 43.0 percent (55 of fornia for a few months to produce methamphet- 128) of reported superlab seizures. The Central amine and then return to Mexico. Valley HIDTA reports that nine central California

Methamphetamine Superlab Seized On February 7, 2004, agents from the Stanislaus Drug Enforcement Agency, California Multijuris- dictional Methamphetamine Enforcement Team, and Central Valley HIDTA arrested five Mexican nationals and seized an operational methamphetamine laboratory located in a residence in Modesto. Authorities had received information that several men who were staying at the residence had acquired large amounts of chemicals used to manufacture methamphetamine. Agents observed the residence for about a week and, after observing several men taking supplies commonly used to produce methamphetamine into the residence, obtained a search warrant. Shortly after the warrant was obtained, agents observed a suspect loading garbage bags into the back- seat of his car before leaving the residence. The suspect was followed until he was away from the residence, when officers stopped his vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed two garbage bags containing 80 pounds of ephedrine. The driver was arrested and charged with manufacturing methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance for sale. After his arrest, agents pre- pared to serve the search warrant on the residence. Just prior to entering the residence, four suspects were observed fleeing. Three suspects were captured, arrested, and charged with manufacturing methamphetamine, criminal conspiracy, and resisting arrest. The fourth suspect was found in a trailer located on the property; he was arrested and charged with manufacturing methamphetamine, criminal conspiracy, battery on a police officer, and resisting arrest. Inside the residence agents found evidence of methamphetamine manufacture in every room. They seized over 300 gallons of alcohol, 96 pounds of red phosphorus, 80 pounds of ephedrine, and several weapons. This laboratory was the largest ever seized in Stanislaus County.

Source: Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department.

Low capacity laboratories, those capable of has declined in recent years. For example, low producing less than 1 pound per production cycle, capacity laboratories accounted for 83.4 percent represent an even greater proportion of seized (7,667 of 9,192) of all seized laboratories in 2002 laboratories since the number of superlab seizures and 91.3 percent (9,297 of 10,182) in 2003.

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Law enforcement reporting indicates that states of Colima, Michoacán, Jalisco, and Guer- most methamphetamine production in central and rero and in the northern states of Baja California eastern states occurs in low capacity laboratories and Sonora. The hydriodic acid/red phosphorus operated by independent producers using the method is the primary method of production in Birch or red phosphorus methods. NCLSS 2003 Mexico; however, the P2P method is also com- data show that of the 6,028 methamphetamine monly used. laboratories seized in the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast Asia. Southeast Asian criminal Southeast Regions, 94 percent were small, mobile groups produce large quantities of ice methamphet- laboratories capable of producing less than 9 amine in laboratories located primarily in China ounces of methamphetamine per production and, to a lesser extent, the Philippines, Taiwan, and cycle. Every HIDTA office in the Midwest, North- South Korea. According to DEA, Chinese criminal east, and Southeast Regions, with the exception of groups manufacture multikilogram quantities of ice the Puerto Rico/U.S. Virgin Islands HIDTA, per production cycle in mobile laboratories located reports that most local methamphetamine produc- in eastern and southeastern provinces of China. tion is conducted by local independent producers Most ice produced in China is intended for domes- using either the Birch or red phosphorus methods. tic distribution; China-produced ice also supplies Only the Philadelphia/Camden HIDTA reported drug markets in other Asian countries and the that OMGs in its area produce methamphetamine United States, particularly in the Philippines, via the P2P method as well. Hawaii, and Guam. Foreign Production Burmese criminal groups are the principal Law enforcement reporting and seizure data producers of methamphetamine tablets in South- show that methamphetamine produced in Mexico east Asia. Intelligence reports indicate that Bur- and Southeast Asia, as well as in Canada, is avail- mese criminal groups produce several hundred able to varying degrees in U.S. drug markets; million methamphetamine tablets annually for however, only Mexican methamphetamine is distribution in drug markets in Thailand, China, smuggled into the United States in quantities ade- and India. According to DEA, some shipments of quate for national-level distribution. methamphetamine tablets from Burma have been received by ethnic Hmong and Laotian individu- Mexico. Mexico is the principal source of for- als primarily in the Sacramento area. However, eign-produced methamphetamine available in the there are no reliable seizure data regarding United States. There are no conclusive estimates Burma-produced methamphetamine tablets en as to the amount of methamphetamine produced in route to the United States or any reliable estimates Mexico; however, an interagency working group as to the amount of Burma-produced metham- estimated that the amount of Mexico-produced phetamine tablets available in the United States. methamphetamine seized in the United States was Methamphetamine tablet production also has been 0.97 metric ton in 2001 and 1.1 metric tons in reported in Malaysia and Fiji; however, there are 2002, the most recent year for which such data are no estimates as to the amount of methamphet- available. Law enforcement reporting indicates amine tablets produced in those countries nor are that methamphetamine production in Mexico is there specific reports of methamphetamine tablets considerable, and there is wide consensus among produced in Malaysia or Fiji available in the law enforcement agencies that production in Mex- United States. ico has increased significantly since 2002, yet few data are available to confirm this assertion other Canada. The amount of methamphetamine than an apparent increase in methamphetamine produced in Canada is relatively low compared seizures at or between land POEs along the South- with the United States; however, production lev- west Border (see Transportation section on page els in Canada may be increasing. According to 16). According to DEA, most methamphetamine the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the production in Mexico occurs in the southwestern amount of methamphetamine produced in Canada

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primarily by Canada-based OMGs, Asian crimi- capacity laboratories, particularly those located in nal groups, and independent traffickers is increas- central and southern California. Pseudoephedrine ing, as evidenced by an increase in the number of diversion groups also transport smaller shipments reported methamphetamine laboratory seizures in of diverted ephedrine and pseudoephedrine from Canada from 13 in 2001, to 25 in 2002, and 39 in Canada to methamphetamine producers in the 2003. RCMP reporting also indicates that the United States via mail services and, to a lesser amount of Canada-produced methamphetamine extent, via couriers on commercial flights. seized en route to the United States has increased Recent anecdotal law enforcement reporting since 1998; however, there are no quantifiable indicates that more domestic superlabs are pro- data to support this assertion. In fact, EPIC data ducing methamphetamine using ephedrine or show that the amount of methamphetamine seized pseudoephedrine diverted from Asia. According at or between POEs along the Northern Border is to DEA, recent legislation in Canada designed to low and decreased from 3.3 kilograms in 2002 to reduce ephedrine and pseudoephedrine diversion 0.2 kilogram in 2003. appears to have led many methamphetamine laboratory operators in the United States—particu- Precursor Chemicals larly operators of high capacity laboratories—to Most operators of high capacity methamphet- begin using bulk quantities of ephedrine and amine laboratories in the United States and Mexico pseudoephedrine obtained from sources in Asia produce the drug by utilizing ephedrine or pseudo- but usually smuggled into the United States via ephedrine, precursor chemicals produced in China, Mexico. Moreover, several law enforcement oper- the Czech Republic, Germany, Hong Kong, India, ations have been successful in reducing the Switzerland, Thailand, and the United Arab Emir- availability of pseudoephedrine tablets smuggled ates. Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are shipped into the United States from Canada. In fact, law from these production countries throughout the enforcement reporting indicates that seizures of world to the United States, Canada, and Mexico Asia-produced pseudoephedrine products at for legitimate use. However, some ephedrine and methamphetamine superlabs in California have pseudoephedrine is diverted from the intended increased. For example, the Los Angeles County legitimate purpose by criminal groups for use in Regional Criminal Information Clearinghouse illicit methamphetamine production, particularly in reports that pseudoephedrine products manufac- California and Mexico. tured in Hong Kong have been seized at several Since the late 1990s, most operators of clandestine methamphetamine laboratory sites in domestic superlabs have produced methamphet- California since 2002. In addition, in February amine using bulk quantities of ephedrine or 2004 the Stanislaus Drug Enforcement Agency pseudoephedrine tablets diverted from Canada. discovered a methamphetamine laboratory with Middle Eastern (Armenian, Jordanian, Lebanese, three large trash bags containing empty 1,000- Syrian, and Yemeni) criminal groups and other tablet bottles of Asia-produced pseudoephedrine. individuals based in Canada and the United States Such seizures previously were very uncommon. purchase pseudoephedrine tablets in bulk—often Asian pseudoephedrine products also are used in the millions—from legitimate wholesale chem- at methamphetamine laboratories in Mexico. Law ical distributors in Canada and smuggle the tab- enforcement reporting indicates that multiton lets across the Northern Border in private and quantities of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are commercial vehicles through or between land transported each year to Mexico and that some are POEs such as Detroit and Port Huron in Michi- illegally distributed to methamphetamine produc- gan. The tablets usually are transported to stash ers by criminal groups. For example, law enforce- sites in the United States before being distributed ment reporting indicates that between April 2002 to methamphetamine producers for use in high

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and July 2004 nearly 80 undocumented shipments States, Panama, or Europe for subsequent distri- of pseudoephedrine and ephedrine were trans- bution to methamphetamine producers in south- ported from Hong Kong to Mexico via the United western Mexico.

Transportation

Methamphetamine is transported by numerous other Southwest Border states. According to criminal groups using a wide range of convey- EPIC seizure data, the combined amount of meth- ances. Mexican criminal groups, local indepen- amphetamine seizures from 2001 through 2003 at dent dealers, street gangs, OMGs, and Asian or between POEs in California (1,725 kg) was criminal groups smuggle methamphetamine into much higher than the amount seized at or and transport it within the United States. Most between POEs in Texas (1,145 kg), Arizona methamphetamine is transported via private vehi- (1,120 kg), or New Mexico (60 kg). However, in cles although some, particularly tableted metham- 2003 the amount seized in Arizona (640 kg) sur- phetamine, is transported via commercial vehicles, passed seizures in the other Southwest Border mail services, couriers aboard commercial flights, states including California (593 kg), Texas (484 and maritime conveyances. kg), and New Mexico (16 kg) possibly because of specific law enforcement operations conducted in Routes From Foreign Source Areas Arizona (see Figure 11). Most methamphetamine transported from foreign sources is smuggled into the United States 700 640 overland via private vehicles and commercial 593 600 vehicles. According to EPIC seizure data, the 484 500

amount of methamphetamine seized at or 400

between land POEs from 2001 through 2003 was 300 4,081 kilograms, compared with approximately 200 85 kilograms seized from commercial flights and 100 16 0 5 kilograms seized from maritime conveyances. Arizona California Texas New Mexico Mexico. Mexican criminal groups based in Mexico smuggle bulk quantities of methamphet- Figure 11. Methamphetamine seizures at or between amine via couriers traveling in private and commer- ports of entry, in kilograms, 2003. cial vehicles, usually equipped with hidden Source: El Paso Intelligence Center. compartments, or by foot through and between land POEs along the Southwest Border. These criminal There are seven principal POEs through groups also smuggle small shipments (2 kg to 4 kg) which methamphetamine is smuggled from Mex- via couriers aboard commercial flights and via mail ico into the United States: Calexico, Otay Mesa, services. Methamphetamine shipments often are and San Ysidro in California; Nogales in Ari- transported to stash sites and staging areas, prima- zona; and Hidalgo, Laredo, and Pharr in Texas. rily in California and Arizona, before the drug is EPIC seizure data show that from 2001 through distributed locally, regionally, or nationally. 2003 more methamphetamine was seized at the San Ysidro POE (845 kg) than any other, Methamphetamine transported from produc- although seizures during the same period at tion areas in Mexico to the Southwest Border typ- Nogales (645 kg), Calexico (382 kg), Otay Mesa ically has been smuggled through and between (195 kg), Laredo (136 kg), Hidalgo (133 kg), and POEs in California; however, recent data indicate Pharr (129 kg) were significant. that more methamphetamine may now be smuggled through or between POEs in Arizona than

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Once inside the United States, methamphet- cities were much higher than in Los Angeles amine is transported from principal POEs to drug (18,416 tablets). The Louisville POE in Kentucky markets throughout the country, particularly to reported the most methamphetamine tablets the Primary Market Areas of Los Angeles, Phoe- seized (111,650) in 2003; however, these tablets nix, San Diego, and San Francisco. were seized in a single incident. Southeast Asia. Law enforcement reporting Canada. Methamphetamine smuggling from indicates that Asian drug trafficking organizations Canada through and between POEs along the (DTOs), including ethnic Cambodian, Chinese, Northern Border occurs at a very low level, and Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Laotian, Thai, and seizure data do not indicate any principal POEs Vietnamese, transport ice methamphetamine to along this border. EPIC data show that from 2001 the Pacific Region from source countries in Asia through 2003, less than 4 kilograms of metham- via mail services and passengers on commercial phetamine were seized at or between POEs along flights to California and Hawaii. Tableted meth- the Northern Border. amphetamine also is transported to the United States from Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand Routes From Domestic Source Areas and Laos, via mail services and couriers on com- California is the only state with methamphet- mercial flights. EPIC data show that Honolulu, amine production sufficient to supply wholesale Los Angeles, and San Francisco International Air- quantities to regional and national markets. Meth- ports are the primary POEs for methamphetamine amphetamine produced in California typically is tablets smuggled into the United States. Seizure transported via private vehicle to Primary Market data further show that methamphetamine tablet Areas and other significant methamphetamine seizures for 2001 through 2003 combined were markets including those in the central and eastern slightly higher in San Francisco (33,490 tablets) United States. than in Honolulu (33,470 tablets); seizures in both

Distribution

Powder methamphetamine and, increasingly, groups, OMGs, and independent Caucasian and ice methamphetamine are distributed to a varying Hispanic midlevel distributors in all regions of degree throughout the country. Law enforcement the country. Retail powder methamphetamine dis- reporting indicates that powder methamphet- tributors include Caucasian independent dealers, amine distribution is widespread in the Midwest, Hispanic street gangs, and OMGs; Caucasian Pacific, Southwest, and West Regions, moderate independent dealers control most retail distribu- and increasing in the Southeast Region, and lim- tion in rural areas, which often consists of distrib- ited but increasing in the Northeast Region. Law uting small amounts of methamphetamine that enforcement reporting indicates that Mexican they produce. criminal groups control most wholesale distribu- The distribution of ice methamphetamine, tion of powder methamphetamine in the Pacific, once limited to Guam, Hawaii, the Northern Mari- Southwest, and West as well as in many areas of ana Islands, and Samoa, now is pervasive through- the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast Regions out the Pacific and Southwest Regions, and in where wholesale quantities of Mexican metham- many areas of the Midwest and West Regions. Ice phetamine are distributed. Mexican criminal distribution is comparatively limited in the South- groups also control most midlevel distribution of east and Northeast but has increased in these powder methamphetamine throughout the coun- regions since 2002. California- and Mexico-based try, particularly in the Pacific, Southwest, and Mexican criminal groups control most wholesale West Regions, and supply other Mexican criminal

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distribution of ice methamphetamine in the To the extent that wholesale methamphetamine United States; however, Asian criminal groups distribution occurs in these states, it usually (including ethnic Cambodian, Chinese, Filipino, involves the distribution by members of Mexican Japanese, Korean, Laotian, Thai, and Vietnamese) criminal groups of methamphetamine produced distribute wholesale amounts of the drug to a lim- in Mexico or California superlabs. Despite limited number of drug markets in the Pacific ited data regarding methamphetamine consump- Region. Retail ice distributors include Caucasian tion for most of the states listed above, the data independent dealers, Hispanic street gangs, and that are available indicate significantly lower use OMGs. in central and southeastern states than in the Pri- mary Market Areas. For example, DAWN data Primary Market Areas for 2002 show that the number of methamphet- Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Diego, and San amine-related ED mentions was much lower for Francisco are the Primary Market Areas for meth- Minneapolis (319), Atlanta (246), St. Louis amphetamine because these cities have very high (150), Dallas (98), and Chicago (42) than for Los levels of methamphetamine abuse and are among Angeles (1,713), San Francisco (727), San Diego the leading regional- or national-level metham- (598), and Phoenix (501). phetamine distribution centers. Several other sig- Los Angeles. Methamphetamine use in Los nificant markets for methamphetamine either Angeles is very high as evidenced by more ED exhibit high levels of consumption or serve as dis- mentions than any other DAWN reporting city. tribution centers for the drug, although not to the According to DAWN, the estimated number of extent of the four Primary Market Areas. For methamphetamine-related ED mentions for Los example, methamphetamine use in Seattle appears Angeles (1,713) was much higher than the next to be considerable as evidenced by a high number highest city, San Francisco (727). of ED mentions for methamphetamine; however, drug seizure data do not substantiate Seattle as a Methamphetamine distribution is pervasive distribution center for methamphetamine at a level throughout the Los Angeles area. According to the comparable with the Primary Market Areas. Con- Los Angeles HIDTA, 63 of 110 identified criminal versely, Dallas appears to be a significant distribu- organizations in the Los Angeles area distribute tion center for methamphetamine based on EPIC methamphetamine. Mexican criminal groups con- drug seizure data; however, methamphetamine trol most wholesale and midlevel methamphet- consumption in Dallas appears to be much lower amine distribution within the Los Angeles area than in the Primary Market Areas. and also control most wholesale distribution of the drug from Los Angeles to other markets through- Methamphetamine use and distribution are out the country. Hispanic street gangs, including extensive throughout the central United States 18th Street, Mara Salvatrucha, and Southside and in many areas of the Southeast; however, the Gang, as well as prison gangs such as Mexican data indicate that no city in central or southeast- Mafia control most retail methamphetamine ern states has demonstrated a level of metham- distribution in the Los Angeles area; however, phetamine consumption or distribution local independent dealers also distribute the drug comparable with that of the Primary Market at the retail level. Areas. Law enforcement agencies in states such as Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, EPIC drug seizure data indicate that Los Kentucky, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Angeles is likely the largest distribution center for Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas methamphetamine in the United States. Combined report widespread distribution; however, this dis- EPIC Pipeline, Convoy, and Jetway drug seizure tribution usually entails the sale of small amounts data for 2002 and 2003 show that law enforcement among friends and family members who produce reported 78 methamphetamine seizure events on methamphetamine in low capacity laboratories. domestic highways, railways, and at airports in which the Los Angeles area was identified as the

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city of origin for the methamphetamine shipment. Furthermore, more methamphetamine was seized Moreover, significantly more methamphetamine in 2002 and 2003 that originated in Phoenix (69 was seized in 2002 and 2003 that originated in the kg) than any other city with the exception of Los Los Angeles area (259 kg) than any other city. Angeles (259 kg). EPIC data indicate that metham- Drug seizure data also show that methamphet- phetamine is distributed to several significant drug amine is distributed from the Los Angeles area to markets in the Midwest, Northeast, and Pacific other significant markets including Atlanta, Den- Regions, including Akron (OH), Detroit, Kansas ver, Des Moines and Davenport (IA), Kansas City City (MO), Las Vegas, Minneapolis, New York, (KS), Kansas City (MO), and San Francisco. Philadelphia, and Rapid City (SD). Phoenix. Methamphetamine use in Phoenix is San Francisco. The level of methamphet- high and increasing as evidenced by a high num- amine consumption in San Francisco is very high ber of ED mentions and an increase in metham- compared with most other cities. According to phetamine-related deaths. According to DAWN DAWN data, the estimated number of metham- data for 2002, Phoenix ranked fifth among phetamine-related ED mentions in San Francisco DAWN reporting cities in the estimated number increased from 611 in 2001 to 727 in 2002, second of ED mentions for methamphetamine (501) only to Los Angeles (1,713). behind Los Angeles (1,713), San Francisco (727), Mexican criminal groups control most whole- San Diego (598), and Seattle (541). DAWN mor- sale and midlevel distribution of powder and ice tality data show that the number of methamphet- methamphetamine in San Francisco, although amine-related deaths in Phoenix has increased Hawaiian, Filipino, and other Asian DTOs con- steadily, more than doubling from 60 in 1998 to trol the distribution of the ice they produce, par- 1 132 in 2002. Moreover, the proportion of meth- ticularly within Asian communities. Independent amphetamine-related deaths to all drug-related dealers and street gangs such as Mara Sal- deaths increased from 15.3 percent in 1999 to vatrucha, 19th Street, Sureños, Trece, and Eddy 25.5 percent in 2002. Street Mob are the primary retail distributors of Mexican DTOs and criminal groups control methamphetamine in the San Francisco area. most wholesale methamphetamine distribution in EPIC Pipeline, Convoy, and Jetway drug seizure Phoenix, supplying midlevel and retail quantities data show that the San Francisco area is among the to Hispanic street gangs such as Wetback Power leading methamphetamine distribution centers. and Sureños, OMGs such as Hells Angels, and Combined EPIC data for 2002 and 2003 indicate Caucasian and Mexican independent dealers. that law enforcement officials reported 22 powder Phoenix-based independent producers also methamphetamine seizure events on domestic high- distribute retail quantities of the methamphet- ways, railways, and at airports in which the San amine they produce. Francisco area was identified as the origin for the EPIC Pipeline, Convoy, and Jetway data indi- methamphetamine shipment. In fact, only Los cate that Phoenix is a significant distribution center Angeles (78) was identified more often than San for methamphetamine. Combined EPIC data for Francisco as the city of origin for methamphetamine 2002 and 2003 show that law enforcement officials seizure events. Furthermore, more methamphet- reported 19 methamphetamine seizure events in amine was seized that originated in the San Fran- which Phoenix was identified as the city of origin cisco area (54 kg) than any other city, with the for the shipment. Only Los Angeles (78) and San exception of Los Angeles (259 kg) and Phoenix (69 Francisco (22) were identified more often than kg). EPIC seizure data indicate that methamphet- Phoenix as the city of origin for methamphetamine amine is distributed from the San Francisco area to shipments destined for domestic drug markets. drug markets throughout the country including

1. DAWN mortality data include information on drug-induced and drug-related deaths identified and submitted by death investigation jurisdictions participating in DAWN.

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Anchorage, Des Moines (IA), Dutch Harbor (AK), methamphetamine distribution centers. Combined Lihue (HI), Lynn Haven (FL), Memphis, New York, EPIC data for 2002 and 2003 show that law Omaha, Rupert (ID), and Sioux City (IA). enforcement officials reported 19 powder meth- San Diego. Methamphetamine use in San amphetamine seizure events on domestic high- Diego is very high. According to DAWN, the esti- ways, railways, and at airports in which the mated number of methamphetamine-related ED methamphetamine shipment originated in the San mentions for San Diego (598) was surpassed only Diego area. In fact, only Los Angeles (78) and by Los Angeles (1,713) and San Francisco (727) San Francisco (22) were identified more than the among DAWN reporting cities in 2002. San Diego area as cities of origin for methamphetamine shipments. Furthermore, the amount of Mexican DTOs and criminal groups are the methamphetamine seized during those events (29 primary wholesale and midlevel distributors of kg) in 2002 and 2003 was exceeded only by the methamphetamine in the San Diego area. Street amount seized in Los Angeles (259 kg), Phoenix gangs and local independent dealers, usually sup- (69 kg), and the San Francisco area (54 kg). Drug plied by Mexican criminal groups, control most seizure data also show that methamphetamine is retail distribution; however, independent produc- distributed from the San Diego area to regional ers also distribute smaller amounts of the meth- and national drug markets such as Atlanta, Chi- amphetamine they produce. cago, Columbus (OH), Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, EPIC Pipeline, Convoy, and Jetway data Honolulu, Houston, Meridian (MS), Philadelphia, indicate that San Diego is among the leading St. Paul (MN), and Washington, D.C.

Outlook

Reported increases in domestic and foreign production in low capacity laboratories has been production of methamphetamine should raise increasing in the Northeast. Small-scale local availability levels in domestic markets overall, production in the Northeast likely will increase exposing an increasing number of potential new sharply in the near term as methamphetamine use users to the drug and sustaining the demand in the region increases, and established users or among established methamphetamine users. As a initiates to methamphetamine use become famil- result, the consequences of methamphetamine use iar with production methods and become their are likely to continue to rise as more users experi- own sources of supply or even small-scale distrib- ence the negative health effects brought on by utors. According to MTF data, past year metham- methamphetamine use. phetamine use in the Northeast Region trended Anecdotal law enforcement reporting, drug upward from 2002 to 2003 among eighth (0.8% to survey data, arrest data, and laboratory seizure 1.7%), tenth (1.5% to 2.1%), and twelfth graders data indicate that methamphetamine availability, (1.6% to 1.8%). production, and distribution have increased in the Methamphetamine production in Mexico likely Northeast Region since 2002, a situation likely to will continue to increase. Reported increases in continue in the near term. Most of the metham- bulk ephedrine and pseudoephedrine shipments phetamine distributed in the Northeast currently is from China to Mexico for use in Mexico-based produced in laboratories in Mexico or California, superlabs and an apparent decrease in the amount of and increases in availability and distribution likely bulk pseudoephedrine diverted from Canada for use will be driven by increased distribution by Mexi- in California-based superlabs suggest that Mexican can criminal groups that supply local midlevel and criminal groups will concentrate more large-scale retail dealers. However, local methamphetamine methamphetamine production efforts in Mexico.

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National Drug Intelligence Center

Sources

Federal

Executive Office of the President Office of National Drug Control Policy High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Appalachia Atlanta Central Valley California Los Angeles New England New York/New Jersey Philadelphia/Camden Washington/Baltimore U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health National Institute on Drug Abuse Monitoring the Future Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Drug Abuse Warning Network National Survey on Drug Use and Health Treatment Episode Data Set U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Drug Enforcement Administration Boston Field Division El Paso Intelligence Center National Clandestine Laboratory Seizure System Operation Convoy Operation Jetway Operation Pipeline Federal-Wide Drug Seizure System

This document may contain dated information. It has been made available to provide access to historical materials. ARCHIVED

Methamphetamine Drug Threat Assessment

Newark Field Division New York Field Division Philadelphia Field Division Washington, D.C., Field Division National Institute of Justice Arrestee Drug Abuse Monitoring Program Office of Justice Programs Office for Victims of Crime U.S. Department of State International Narcotics Control Strategy Report

State

California California Department of Justice Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement Los Angeles County Regional Criminal Information Clearinghouse Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Department Stanislaus Drug Enforcement Agency New Mexico State Legislature

International

Royal Canadian Mounted Police

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National Drug Intelligence Center

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Methamphetamine Drug Threat Assessment

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Methamphetamine Drug Threat Assessment

Product No. 2005-Q0317-009 March 2005

Cover photo DEA 0 610 05

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